a short speech on drug abuse

Speech on Drug Abuse in English in Simple and easy Words

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Speech on Drug Abuse: Drug abuse has become the most common thing these days and many youth are destroying their lives by getting addicted to drugs. It’s very important to sensitize our youth on the subject of drug abuse. They are ruining the lives of our youth and putting their future in a great darkness. The use of drugs is making their lives vulnerable and prone to destruction. Therefore, it becomes very important to raise awareness about it amongst our youth and prevent them from succumbing to it. The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is celebrated annually on June 26th it serves as a significant platform for raising awareness and addressing the critical issue of substance abuse. You can even prepare a speech on drug abuse and deliver it on various occasions and platforms.

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Long and Short Speeches on Drug Abuse in English

For your help, we have posted below some short speech on drug abuse as well as long speech on drug abuse, which will give you a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and help you create an impressive brief to impress upon your audience and bring a change in society.

Speech on Drug Abuse – Speech 1

Dear Students – Warm Greetings to all of you! I welcome everyone to the school seminar hall.

Today, we are here to discuss about the fatal consumption of drugs and how it is destroying the lives of our youth. But before the discussion begins, I would like to deliver a short speech on drug abuse and would like to enlighten our students on this sensitive subject matter.

Drugs, as we all know, are an illegal matter which some people drink, smoke, inject or eat for the mental as well as physical effects that it leaves. There are several students who consume drugs out of fun or for various other reasons. People who deal in the selling of drugs create a network and mainly target students in order to make them addicted to drugs. Initially, the drugs are sold to the students for free and gradually when they get addicted to it, they start buying and consuming it. In fact, the students also eventually become a part of their network and start dealing in it.

It is observed that students start consuming drugs out of stress or unfair expectations of their teachers as well as parents. Lack of emotional support and disorder in their families make them vulnerable and increase their dependency on drugs. They use it in order to calm down their state of mental agitation. Other than this, it is poverty that compels some students to become a part of the selling and dealing network of drugs and derive their pocket money. Therefore, it becomes like a vicious circle of the drug addicted students from which they seem to find no escape unless the society comes for their rescue.

Sadly, the students fail to realize that the consumption of drugs has a severe impact on their physical and mental health, such as they start experiencing mental disorder, their intelligence level decreases, experience deadly diseases and untimely death. When one completely succumbs to the temptation of drugs, it gets very difficult for him/her to recover from its impact except in the centers for drug rehabilitation where they gain a new life, but which involves a high cost. In fact, there are many cases too where even rehabilitation centers fail because of the worst condition of the patients.

I, therefore, request all the students to refrain themselves completely from the consumption of drugs before it destroys their health, future and takes away their lives. Don’t even try to touch or come close to them. Drugs can even destroy a complete generation. So think wise and act smart. Shape your future which seems bright and full of achievements. The drugs that doctor prescribes to his/her patients must only be taken in order to combat a specific disease otherwise the government must take strict measures to ban its illegal trade in the market and save our youth from destruction.

I want to conclude by saying that drug abuse should be an absolute ‘No’ for all and I sincerely hope that our students will never ever try to consume drugs and will completely stay away from its use. Remember that our country needs you as you are its future and harbinger of progress.

Speech on Drug Abuse – Speech 2

Good Morning Friends – Welcome to the 77 th campaign for drug addiction ban.

It feels extremely great to see how the members of our organization are working hard in order to make every day count and reach out to the masses for spreading awareness about the drug addiction or drug abuse. Since day one and today it’s the 77 th campaign of our organization – we haven’t really ever thought that we will grow this big, i.e. currently we have more than 200 people working for us and have gained a mass appeal. The response so far has been really good and we have been able to transform the life of the people for good, who earlier have been living under the influence of drugs.

So today I would further like to appeal to the masses to refrain themselves from using drugs and live a healthy life. Drug addiction or drug abuse is described as an excessive dependency on a substance, which inevitably becomes the compulsive need of the person using it. This need becomes so compulsive that without that substance the person cannot live his life like a normal person does. And, when such a substance is stopped being available in the market then that person is believed to be suffering from substance withdrawal.

The addiction of drugs has become one of the serious social problems in many developing as well as developed countries and it undeniably proves to be the principal obstruction in the all-round development of the people, society, country and the world at a large. Our country is a progressing country and it is already afflicted with so many other grave problems, such as unemployment, poverty and illiteracy that the problem of Adolescence and Drug abuse makes the situation even worse here as it further makes our economy regressive by destroying the lives of its youth.

Even sadder is the fact that several drug addicts cannot afford to make a purchase of expensive drugs so much so that in the end they have to resort to such activities as theft in their homes. These people are not born thieves, but their addiction to drugs makes them heinous and propels them to commit crimes in order to feed their body with drugs.

People can become addicted to drugs because of various reasons, some of which are mentioned below:

1. In order to de-stress themselves

When a person is under the influence of drugs, he/she forgets everything and enters into a trance-like state. However, it is only later that people realize that the use of drugs is only aggravating the problem and not really helping them in getting rid of the stress.

2. Out of peer pressure

Many times, people start taking drugs because their friends are addicted to them. However, once they start taking it, it becomes really difficult for them to get rid of this habit.

3. Style Statement

Many teenagers these days think that the habit of drinking, smoking and even drug addiction is what helps them look cool and create a style statement in the front of others. However, it’s only when these people get trapped in its vicious circle that they realize the irreparable they have caused to their lives.

Teenagers and every person for that matter must understand that the habit of drug abuse not only greatly affects their body and mind, but also finishes their bright future. So we should strictly say ‘No’ to drugs and save our lives as well the lives of our loved ones by spreading awareness in our surroundings.

Speech on Drug Abuse – Speech 3

Respected Principal, Vice Principal, Teachers and My Dear Fellow Students – Warm Welcome to all of you! Today, standing in the prayer hall I would like to take this opportunity to deliver a brief speech on Drug Abuse.

I request our principal and teachers to kindly allow me to speak on this subject as it is a high time to enlighten our youth about the dangerous habit of drug abuse. In the present times, there are many factors that push a man to resort to drug addiction and make his/her life miserable. The most glaring factors are rapid industrialization and urbanization, which have given birth to a new kind of behavior among the youth of today, i.e. individualism and permissiveness. People these days prefer nuclear families and in many cases both parents are working, as a consequence of which they become less forbearing in comparison to their previous generations. People are living their lives in isolation and avoid getting social because the stress in the modern times has become way too much to make them withdrawn figures in their personal lives.

In the end, such people become involved in the habit of drinking, smoking, drug addiction, etc. Besides, when a child doesn’t feel satisfied at home or when he/she is deprived of love, affection and care of his/her parents, a feeling of discontentment comes in and such children become prone to drug addiction and ruin their lives completely. What is more painful to see that if the drug addicted people are not allowed the use of drugs, then he/she suffers from bouts of depression, painful and uncontrollable convulsions as well as vomiting!

It is an obvious fact that the addiction of drugs is ruining the path of progress of many individuals and our nation as a whole so much so that proactive measures need to be taken in order to keep a check on this destructive habit of our youth. The most significant step in this direction would be about spreading awareness amongst the people on a national scale.

Our Indian government has in fact formulated various campaigns and even has been able to gain success in this direction. The individuals whose family and friends suffer from the addiction of drugs are requested to approach the rehabilitation institutions and camps in order to provide treatment to the addicts.

Drug abuse should not be tolerated and be completely banned as a taboo. However, it is not advised to torture the addict or treat him/her inhumanely for this habit because if you try and convince the person about its treatment then he/she may willingly choose to opt for it and get rid of this addiction by admitting himself/herself at the rehabilitation centers.

A person who has become the victim of drug abuse is forced by his/her bodily conditions to carry on with the addiction, but sooner they realize the bad impact of this habit. All that these people need is a helping hand and therefore we should provide encouragement as well as support to these people in making these addicts come back to their normal lives and lead a healthy life.

Speech on Drug Abuse – Speech 4

Hon’ble Principal, Vice Principal, Fellow Colleagues and My Dear Students – Warm Greetings to one and all!

Firstly, I would like to extend a note of thank you to our respected Principal and Vice Principal for gracing this speech ceremony with their presence and giving their approval too. And, to all the fellow teachers – as without your support this event wouldn’t have been possible. I would also like to congratulate our dear students for making the desired arrangement on a short notice.

The topic for today’s speech is Drug Abuse! I have chosen to speak on this topic because these days I observe many campaigns being run on Drug Abuse in order to teach the people about its ill effects. As a teacher, it also becomes my responsibility to help them spread the message wherever we can and most importantly beginning from our very own school.

Drug abuse is considered one of the banes of our so called civilized society. It has affected all the sections and regions of our society. People with the illicit use of drug are found everywhere, i.e. in urban and rural regions, among men and women, among rich and poor. But it is exceedingly practiced by our young girls and boys living in hostels in nearly all technical and educational institutions.

The grave situation of drug abuse is prevalent across the world and unfortunately our very country India is more strongly affected by it. Our country is a transit country because it is placed between the Golden Triangle consisting of Burma, Thailand and Cambodia, including Golden Crescent consisting of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran – the places where most of the drugs, chiefly heroin and opium are produced. Pakistan is undeniably the nucleus of the world when it comes to any unlawful activity and as far as the drug production is concerned – it is the hub. In fact, a big proportion of drugs go by India in order that it can be exported to other countries.

This happens through the network of drug mafia who further has connections with formidable smugglers as well as terrorists. In the process, unfortunately several young men as well as women become victims to this diabolic activity. Pakistan with the help of ISI is involving itself in a proxy war in the region of Kashmir against India through money earned with the help of drug mafia. Thus, terrorism and drugs share very strong connections.

This addiction to drug is so deadly that people fall prey to its use and become almost a slave. If a person doesn’t get its regular dose, then that person starts feeling a lack of it and becomes depressed with severe pain which even leads to a lack of sensation in arms and legs. Drugs are of various kinds, such as heroin, opium, charas, ganja, etc.

There are some injections too which lead to a state of severe drowsiness. In case, a drug-addict is not able to receive the required dose of drug when needed, then he/she would be ready to do anything for it even by resorting to unfair means, such as theft or may be hurting someone physically, etc.

I therefore request everyone to strictly say ‘No’ to drugs and get such people admitted to rehabilitation centers where their conditions can be improved before it gets horrible and proves fatal for that person.

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Speech on Drug Abuse Faq’s

What is the topic of drug abuse day.

Drug Abuse Day focuses on raising awareness about the harmful effects of drug misuse and addiction.

What is drug abuse in the English language?

Drug abuse in English refers to the harmful and improper use of drugs, often leading to health and social problems.

How can we say no to drugs?

We can say no to drugs by staying informed, making healthy choices, and seeking support from friends and family when faced with drug temptations.

How to write an essay about drugs?

To write an essay about drugs, start with an introduction, discuss the impacts, causes, and solutions, and conclude with your viewpoint on the topic.

What is drugs summary?

A drugs summary is a brief overview of key information about drugs, including their effects, risks, and uses.

What is drug abuse in a short introduction?

Drug abuse is when people misuse drugs, causing harm to themselves and society. It's a serious problem that needs attention.

What are a few lines on addiction?

Addiction is a strong, harmful craving for something, like drugs, that can be very difficult to control. It can lead to serious problems.

We can say no to drugs by being strong, confident, and making choices that keep us safe and healthy.

Addiction is a powerful need for something that can be harmful, like drugs or alcohol. It can affect a person's life in many negative ways.

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Speech On Drug Abuse | Drug Abuse Speech for Students and Children in English

April 9, 2023 by Prasanna

Speech On Drug Abuse: The drug is a substance that can cause the death of an organism if taken more than the dosage. It causes a change in the physiological and psychological structure of the organism when it is consumed. There are various mediums through which one can intake or consume drugs like smoking, inhalation, injection, etc.

In pharmacy terms, a drug is a chemical substance, that is typical of a known structure, which, when entering into a living organism, produces a biological effect. The other name given to pharmaceutical drugs is medicine or medication. It mainly treats cures or prevents a disease present in a body. Pharmaceutical drugs should be used for a limited time, or it may cause severe disorders if taken regularly.

Students can also find more English Speech Writing about Welcome Speeches, Farewell Speeches, etc

Long And Short Speeches On Drug Abuse for Kids And Students in English

In this article, we provide a long speech for students and children on the topic of Drug Abuse with about 500 words and another short speech with 150 words approximately on the same topic.

These speeches can help anyone who is looking forward to presenting a speech on the topic as mentioned above, be it students, teachers, or any other research person.

Furthermore, we have also included ten Lines on the topic and some FAQs to make the content clearer to our readers.

A Long Speech On Drug Abuse is helpful to students of classes 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12. A Short Speech On Drug Abuse is helpful to students of classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6.

Long Speech On Drug Abuse 500 Words In English

Very good morning and a warm welcome to everybody present here today. Today, I will be talking on the topic of‘ drug abuse’.

The word ‘drug’ when it comes to one’s mind, is taken in a negative sense as it is often misused. If the drugs are used for serving a useful purpose, it could bring a considerable change in the lives of people.

The drug is not a dangerous substance itself. But people misuse it in many ways. It is highly dangerous and can cause serious health problems if one takes it on a regular basis. The drug has become a trend in today’s world. Today’s generation has become obsessed with following whatever is new or trending in the world. Such is the situation in case of drugs.

Pharmaceutical drugs are classified into the following groups that have the same kind of chemical structure, mechanisms of actions, mode of action of the same type of drugs, etc. The Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification is the most popularly used drug classification system. It assigns a unique code or the ATC code to each drug. The ATC code is an alphanumeric code. It assigns that specific drug within the ATC system.

Another essential classification system that is widely used for drug classification is the Biopharmaceutics Classification System. This system classifies the drugs according to their solubility and permeability or absorption properties.

There are also different kinds of drugs. Among them, Psychoactive drugs play an essential role. It consists of chemical substances that are very harmful to the human body. It has a high chance to affect the function of the nervous system of a human being. These drugs can affect one’s stability of mind, inflict mood swings, etc.

These psychoactive drugs have a significant impact on people. These drugs mainly consist of depressants, antidepressants, hallucinogens, etc. and have been proven extremely useful. It has also gained huge success in treating mental disorders around the world. The drugs that are used in a wide variety in the world are caffeine, alcohol, nicotine and many more. These drugs are considered to be recreational drugs. Recreational drugs refer to the drugs that are consumed for pleasure and not for medical purposes.

Abuse of such psychoactive drugs can turn out to be very dangerous to the entire humankind. It can cause psychological or physical addiction. All these drugs have tremendous side effects; these side effects can later give rise to several diseases.

Thus, the government has come up with strict rules and regulations regarding the production of these drugs. This industry is closely supervised, so the smuggling of drugs can be reduced as much as possible.

It is our duty as responsible citizens of our country not to misuse the drugs as it will cost us our lives and follow the rules and regulations of the government appropriately. If we see any such crime, we should immediately report it to the nearest police station.

Thank you, everyone, for your patience and for giving an earful to my speech. I hope everyone has a great day ahead.

Short Speech On Drug Abuse 150 Words In English

Good morning and welcome to everyone present here. I am here today to give a speech on ‘Drug abuse’.

The drug is not the kind of word that has an outstanding reputation of its own. It is mostly associated with spoiled teenagers or rich kids with a lot of money.

In reality, the drug has many positive sides. It is known to serve as medicines or medication of many chronic diseases. There are many kinds of drugs that help in the treatment of mental illness, depression, etc.

It can be proved to be equally harmful if it is consumed without the medical advice of a professional. It will not take long to convert the consumption of drug from an option to an addiction.

Thus, it is essential we maintain the balance and not consume drugs to destroy our own lives.

With this, I mark the end of this speech, thank you.

10 Lines On Drug Abuse Speech In English

Drug abuse or addiction is one of the most common chronic and compulsive disorder that often requires formal treatment.
Drug abuse changes a person’s brain chemistry, and the longer one uses it, the more damage they pose for themselves.
There are ample rehabilitation centres in most countries now to overcome the problem of drug abuse. However, people hardly go there for treatment in most cases.
There are some very symptoms like isolating oneself, spending time with new friends, losing job etc.
Drug overdose death rate has tripled across the world since 1990.
Most Americans between the age of 18 to 25 are likely to be drug addicts.
Over 15000 Americans died in 2017 due to heroin overdose.
More than 90% of people who have any addiction start from a very young age, before turning 18.
Drug and alcohol usage costs around $600 billion to the U.S economy each year.
In 2017 around 8,50000 Americans used heroin at least once.

FAQ’s On Drug Abuse Speech

Question 1. What is the function of NIDA (National Institute on Drug Abuse)?

Answer: NIDA is one of the most famous scientific research institutes under the U.S department of health services. The institute addresses essential issues about drug abuse, drug trends etc.

Question 2. Where can I get data on drug overdose?

Answer: Data on drug overdose, addiction can be availed from various agencies such as NIDA in case of the U.S where they annually maintain reports od drug abusers.

Question 3. Why do drug users keep using the drug?

Answer: Being exposed to drugs for a very long time changes the brain’s power to get control over decisions, thus making it difficult to abstain from drug use.

Question 4. What is drug addiction/abuse?

Answer: Drug abuse is a chronic disease that changes brain circuits and is also responsible for other behavioural changes. Quitting drugs is one of the main problems of drug abuse as even with the strongest of opinions people fail to do so.

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Speech on Drug Abuse: Short & Long Speech on Drug Addiction

admin June 25, 2024 Speech 374 Views

Speech on Drug Abuse : Drug abuse has become the most common thing these days and many youth are destroying their lives by getting addicted to drugs. It’s very important to sensitize our youth on the subject of drug abuse. They are ruining the lives of our youth and putting their future in a great darkness. The use of drugs is making their lives vulnerable and prone to destruction. Therefore, it becomes very important to raise awareness about it amongst our youth and prevent them from succumbing to it. The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is celebrated annually on June 26th it serves as a significant platform for raising awareness and addressing the critical issue of substance abuse. You can even prepare a speech on drug abuse and deliver it on various occasions and platforms.

International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

United Nations International Day against drug abuse and the illegal drug trade. It is observed annually on 26 June , since 1989.

Long and Short Speeches on Drug Abuse in English

Speech on Drug Abuse: Speech 1

Dear students – warm greetings to all of you i welcome everyone to the school seminar hall..

I, therefore, request all the students to refrain themselves completely from the consumption of drugs before it destroys their health, future and takes away their lives. Don’t even try to touch or come close to them. Drugs can even destroy a complete generation. So think wise and act smart. Shape your future which seems bright and full of achievements. The drugs that doctor prescribes to his / her patients must only be taken in order to combat a specific disease otherwise the government must take strict measures to ban its illegal trade in the market and save our youth from destruction.

Speech on Drug Abuse: Speech 2

Good morning friends – welcome to the 77 th campaign for drug addiction ban..

People can become addicted to drugs because of various reasons, some of which are mentioned below:

1. in order to de-stress themselves.

2. Out of peer pressure

Many times, people start taking drugs because their friends are addicted to them. However, once they start taking it, it becomes really difficult for them to get rid of this habit.

3. Style Statement

Speech on Drug Abuse: Speech 3

Respected principal, vice principal, teachers and my dear fellow students – warm welcome to all of you today, standing in the prayer hall i would like to take this opportunity to deliver a brief speech on drug abuse..

Speech on Drug Abuse: Speech 4

Hon’ble principal, vice principal, fellow colleagues and my dear students – warm greetings to one and all.

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Speech on Drug Abuse

It’s very important to sensitize our youth on the subject of drug abuse. Drugs are destroying the lives of our youth and putting their future in a great darkness. The use of drugs is making their lives vulnerable and prone to destruction. Therefore, it becomes very important to raise awareness about it amongst our youth and prevent them from succumbing to it. You can even prepare a speech on drug abuse and deliver it on various occasions and platforms.

Long and Short Drug Abuse Speech in English

Speech on Drug Abuse 1

Dear Students – Warm Greetings to all of you! I welcome everyone to the school seminar hall.

Speech on Drug Abuse 2

Good Morning Friends – Welcome to the 77 th campaign for drug addiction ban.

The addiction of drugs has become one of the serious social problems in many developing as well as developed countries and it undeniably proves to be the principal obstruction in the all-round development of the people, society, country and the world at a large. Our country is a progressing country and it is already afflicted with so many other grave problems, such as unemployment, poverty and illiteracy that the problem of drug abuse makes the situation even worse here as it further makes our economy regressive by destroying the lives of its youth.

People can become addicted to drugs because of various reasons, some of which are mentioned below:

In order to de-stress themselves

Out of peer pressure

Many times, people start taking drugs because their friends are addicted to them. However, once they start taking it, it becomes really difficult for them to get rid of this habit.

Style Statement

Speech on Drug Abuse 3

Speech on Drug Abuse 4

Hon’ble Principal, Vice Principal, Fellow Colleagues and My Dear Students – Warm Greetings to one and all!

Related Information:

Essay on Drug Abuse

Paragraph on Drug Addiction

Best farewell speech for outgoing students, farewell speech for colleague, farewell speech for teacher, farewell speech for seniors, farewell speech for boss, gandhi jayanti speech.

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18 Best TED Talks for Addiction & Recovery

18 of the best TED Talks for addiction and recovery by healthcare professionals, athletes, a Fortune 500 entrepreneur, a former Miss USA, and more.

The best TED Talks for addiction and recovery , along with other powerful YouTube videos to play for clients in a treatment setting – or for yourself or for anyone who desires to learn more about substance use.

The following best TED Talks for addiction are entertaining, insightful, and though-provoking.

1. The 12 Steps According to Russell Brand (2018)

A 10-minute clip of Russell Brand’s interpretation of the 12 Steps . Humorous and honest.

2. Addiction: A Story of Stigma, A Story of Hope | Scott McFadden (2020)

This 18-minute talk delivered by Scott McFadden is one of the best TED Talks for addiction as it addresses stigma and sends a message of hope.

Excerpt: Scott McFadden is a Licensed Addictions Counselor, who also identifies as a person in long term recovery from heroin and other drugs. He shares a harrowing story of incarceration and a long journey to recovery while explaining the dynamics of addiction and the labels, shame, and stigma which have become the greatest obstacles to turning around the opioid epidemic.

He shows us the need to talk to one another to overcome the secret places where shame resides. This is a story of vulnerability and hope!

5. Addiction Neuroscience 101 (2018)

Approximately 25 minutes, an overview of the neurobiology of addiction.

4. Chris Herren Speaking on His Addiction Recovery Story | PeaceLove (2015)

A 17-minute motivational speech delivered by Chris Herren.

Excerpt: Hear former professional basketball player and motivational speaker Chris Herren speaking about his recovery from drug addiction. Since August of 2008, Herren has been drug-free and alcohol-free, and has refocused his life to put his sobriety and family above all other things.

5. Disconnected Brains: How Isolation Fuels Opioid Addiction | Rachel Wurzman (2018)

This fascinating 19-minute video clip from Rachel Wurzman is one of the best TED Talks for addiction as a biopsychosocial disorder.

Excerpt: Addiction to opioids is now officially a national emergency. But why are addiction rates spiking and what can we do about it? Neuroscientist Rachel Wurzman shares new research about how the brain reacts to opioids, replacing the sense of community and belonging human beings are losing. We are beginning to understand that solving the opioid epidemic will require us to focus on social factors surrounding those addicted.

6. Do You Have More Heart Than Scars? | Zackary Paben (2017)

A 17-minute inspirational talk by Zackary Paben.

Excerpt: How can resilience and interdependence impact the arch of our personal narrative to transcend from victim to hero? Since 1991, Zack has been empowering adolescents and adults as a mental health/recovery professional in a variety of modalities, including wilderness and residential.

As he continues to face his own visible and invisible scars, he innately has to acknowledge the wounds of others and encourage them in their own healing process.

7. Everything You Think You Know About Addiction Is Wrong | Johann Hari (2015)

A 15-minute video from Johann Hari. This piece is somewhat controversial because it suggests that addiction is a social/environmental issue while failing to address the impact of trauma, genetics, brain chemistry, etc. This clip is an excellent tool for generating discussions and is one of the best TED Talks for addiction.

Excerpt: What really causes addiction — to everything from cocaine to smart-phones? And how can we overcome it? Johann Hari has seen our current methods fail firsthand, as he has watched loved ones struggle to manage their addictions. He started to wonder why we treat addicts the way we do — and if there might be a better way.

As he shares in this deeply personal talk, his questions took him around the world, and unearthed some surprising and hopeful ways of thinking about an age-old problem.

8. Great Leaders Do What Drug Addicts Do | Michael Brody-Waite (2018)

An 19-minute talk from Michael Brody-Waite, entrepreneur and addict in recovery.

Excerpt: This is my story from drug addiction and homelessness to founding and leading a company on the Inc 500 list. There are 3 principles that saved me from death and set me apart as a leader. They are small enough to fit in your pocket, yet big enough to change your life. The best part is that anyone can take these principles and immediately implement them after watching this talk.

9. The Harm Reduction Model of Drug Addiction Treatment | Mark Tyndall (2017)

This 17-minute video from Mark Tyndall about harm reduction and recovery is one of the best TED Talks for addiction treatment.

Excerpt: Why do we still think that drug use is a law-enforcement issue? Making drugs illegal does nothing to stop people from using them, says public health expert Mark Tyndall. So, what might work?

Tyndall shares community-based research that shows how harm-reduction strategies, like safe-injection sites, are working to address the drug overdose crisis.

10. How Childhood Trauma Affects Health Across a Lifetime | Nadine Burke Harris (2015)

16-minute talk by Dr. Nadine Burke Harris on the impact of trauma.

Excerpt: Childhood trauma isn’t something you just get over as you grow up. Pediatrician Nadine Burke Harris explains that the repeated stress of abuse, neglect and parents struggling with mental health or substance abuse issues has real, tangible effects on the development of the brain.

This unfolds across a lifetime, to the point where those who’ve experienced high levels of trauma are at triple the risk for heart disease and lung cancer.

11. Let’s Quit Abusing Drug Users (2015)

19-minute video clip about addiction and recovery reform from Dr. Carl Hart. He discusses drug use in the context of poverty, social injustice, and ignorance. An excellent video for generating discussion and one of the best TED Talks for addiction and policy reform.

Excerpt: Carl Hart, Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Psychology at Columbia University, offers a provocative, evidence-based view of addiction and discusses how it should impact drug policy.

12. The Merits of Harm Reduction | Melissa Byers (2019)

14-minute video clip from Melissa Byers about addiction, harm reduction, and recovery.

Excerpt: Melissa shares her family’s personal story of addiction and how harm reduction plays a much more significant role to recovery than people realize.

13. Nuggets (2015)

A 5-minute cartoon clip of a kiwi bird who tastes a golden “nugget.” This simple animation doesn’t require words to send a powerful message about addiction. Hauntingly accurate.

14. The Power of Addiction and The Addiction of Power | Gabor Maté (2012)

This 19-minute speech delivered by Gabor Maté is one of the best TED Talks for addiction.

Excerpt: Canadian physician Gabor Maté is a specialist in terminal illnesses, chemical dependents, and HIV positive patients. Dr. Maté is a renowned author of books and columnist known for his knowledge about attention deficit disorder, stress, chronic illness and parental relations.

15. Recover Out Loud | Tara Conner (2017)

One of the best TED Talks for addiction, this 10-minute video clip from former Miss USA, Tara Conner, is all about her personal experience with substance use.

Excerpt: Tara Conner, Miss USA 2006, shares her life-long struggle with addiction and what she has learned from 10 years of sobriety. Addicts are not bad people that need to get good, but sick people that need to get well.

In this challenging and at times humorous talk, she calls for a different response to the addiction crisis.

16. Revitalize | Living With Addiction | Amber Valletta (2015)

16-minute inspirational talk delivered by Amber Valletta.

Excerpt: Supermodel, actress, and fashion icon Amber Valletta opens up for the first time about her daily struggle of living with addiction.

17. Rewriting the Story of My Addiction | Jo Harvey Weatherford (2015)

10-minute video clip from Jo Harvey Weatherford about her personal recovery journey.

Excerpt: Jo Harvey Weatherford develops and implements drug and alcohol prevention programs on the campus of The University of Nevada. In this candid talk she discusses the importance of the stories we tell ourselves about our behavior, and how she rewrote her own story of addiction to alcohol.

18. The Stigma of Addiction | Tony Hoffman (2018)

This 15-minute video from Tony Hoffman is one of the best TED Talks for addiction. He shares about his substance use and stigma.

Excerpt: There is a stigma which many assign to drug addicts, even long after they have overcome their addiction. Tony discusses how his first time smoking marijuana led to his eventual drug addiction, homelessness, prison, and finally redemption.

For Families – The Island of Insanity: Navigating Through Loved Ones’ Addictions | Karen Perlmutter (2022)

A powerful 13-minute video for anyone who is traumatized by the addiction of a loved one.

Excerpt: With a master’s degree in clinical social work, Karen has seen first-hand that addiction is a tragedy with a profound effect on the family. She has ideas on how we can support families in combatting the devastating effects of this disease After earning her undergraduate degree through the University of South Carolina in 2003, Karen began working with teens and families through a therapeutic foster care agency. She pursued higher education in the field, earning her Master’s in Clinical Social Work at the University of North Carolina (Wilmington) in 2007, and continuing on to becoming a Licensed Independent Social Worker.

Karen has over a decade of experience working as a therapist with individuals, couples, and families. She specializes in the treatment of substance abuse and mental illness, and has developed a particular interest in supporting the holistic needs of families who are affected by these struggles.

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29 Short Messages Of Hope For Anyone In Recovery, Or Fighting An Addiction

https://thoughtcatalog.com/?p=801952

man in lights looking at store sign, somber man, addiction quotes, overcoming addiction, addiction recovery

Sometimes I don’t have the right words. Sometimes when I try to talk to someone I love about something so heavy, so important, I feel at a loss. How can I convey my love? How can I show that person his or her strength? How can I urge them to fight, to continue, to live ?

How can I show someone I care for that they matter, and that each day they survive, each day that choose not to use/drink/etc. they are winning ?

Sometimes when I’m at a loss, I turn to the words of others. Here are little tidbits of hope . Whether you are a family member or friend of an addict, or perhaps struggling/fighting/in recovery yourself, my wish is that you hear these words. That you write them on your heart. That you remember each day, each hour, each minute, you are getting stronger . And that you can, and will, overcome.

“You don’t have to see the whole staircase, you just have to take the first step.” — Martin Luther King Jr.

“I avoid looking forward or backward, and try to keep looking upward.” — Charlotte Brontë

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” — Chinese Proverb

“When you get into a tight place and everything goes against you, till it seems you could not hang on a minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn.” — Harriet Beecher Stowe

“It’s not about the man that has the most, it’s about the man that needs the least.” — Proverb

“Sometimes you can only find Heaven by slowly backing away from Hell.” — Carrie Fisher

“Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” — Theodore Roosevelt

I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.” — Jimmy Dean

“Don’t live life like a chameleon. Be you.” — Unknown

“Resistance is the first step to change.” — Louise Hay

“The fact that you exist is a highly statistically improbable event, and if you are not perpetually surprised by the fact that you exist you don’t deserve to be here.” — 10% Happier , Dan Harris

“Some things pass, and some things pass like a kidney stone.” — Unknown

“It’s no good to be unhappy about the things you can’t change, but also no good to be unhappy about the things you can.” — Unknown

“You might not be able to change the world, but you can change your corner of it.” — Unknown

“The greatest gifts you’ll ever open are your eyes.” — Unknown

“Those who are caught up in their thoughts only have their thoughts to think about.” — Unknown

“Nothing is impossible; the word itself says, ‘I’m possible!’” — Audrey Hepburn

“People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Neither does bathing. That’s why we recommend it daily.” — Zig Ziglar

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” — Robert Collier

“Stop and feel the roses.” — Patrick Cushing

“When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.” — Henry Ford

“If we are facing in the right direction, all we have to do is keep on walking.” — Zen Proverb

“Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.” — Carl Bard

“I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.’” — Muhammad Ali

“If you don’t like being a doormat, get off the floor.” — Al Anon

“If things go wrong, don’t go with them.” — Roger Babson

“Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising up every time we fail.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

About the author

Marisa Donnelly

Marisa is a writer, poet, & editor. She is the author of Somewhere On A Highway , a poetry collection on self-discovery, growth, love, loss and the challenges of becoming.

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Speech on International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

Every year on June 26, the world observes the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. This important day aims to raise awareness about the major problem that illicit drugs pose to society.

You might wonder, why such a day? Well, this global observance encourages people to actively fight against drug abuse and illegal drug trade. It’s a day for everyone to stand together against a common concern.

1-minute Speech on International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today, we gather for a special event, the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. This day is about standing strong against a harmful problem that hurts people and families all over the world.

Drugs are like a monster hiding under your bed. They seem fascinating, promising fun and escape from your troubles. But like the monster, they can hurt you, take away your health, happiness, and dreams. Drug abuse is not a game. It is a dangerous trap that can destroy lives.

People who sell drugs illegally are like the monster’s helpers. They make a lot of money while causing harm. This is called illicit trafficking. It is a worldwide problem that feeds the monster of drug abuse. It hurts our societies by increasing crime, damaging health, and breaking families.

We can also support those who are struggling with drug abuse. Show them love, and guide them to get help. They are not alone in their battle. Each one of us can be a superhero against the monster of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

In conclusion, let us remember this day as a symbol of our fight. Let us stand together, learn, help, and fight. Because together, we are stronger than any monster.

2-minute Speech on International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

June 26 is a significant day. It’s the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. This day holds a mirror to a problem that impacts everyone, from children to adults. It’s about drugs, and it’s about the illegal selling of drugs. The United Nations chose this day to remind us all that drugs are a threat to our lives and our world.

Let’s first talk about drug abuse. This means taking drugs in a way that hurts us. Sometimes, people use drugs to feel better or escape from problems. But, these drugs can harm our bodies and minds. Over time, our brain changes, and we start needing these drugs to feel normal. This is called addiction. It’s like a trap that’s hard to escape from.

Then comes illicit trafficking. This is a fancy term for the illegal trade of drugs. It’s like a dark web, where drugs are made, sold, and bought. This network spreads across countries and continents. It’s a business that makes a lot of money by hurting people and societies.

But why should we care about this day? Because drugs are not a far-off problem. They are in our neighborhoods, our schools, sometimes even in our homes. They can affect anyone, no matter their age, gender, or status. So, this day is about spreading awareness. It’s about understanding the dangers of drugs and helping those who are trapped by them.

So, how can we help? First, we need to talk about drugs. Often, there is silence around this topic. But, silence only helps the problem grow. We need to talk openly, without judgment. We need to listen to those who are struggling and offer help.

Lastly, we need to support the fight against the illegal drug trade. This means not buying or selling drugs. It also means reporting any such activities we see. By doing this, we can cut off the money flow to these harmful businesses.

In conclusion, the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is not just a day. It’s a call to action. It’s a call to protect ourselves, our friends, our families, and our world. It’s a call to stand against drugs and the harm they cause. Because every life is valuable, and no one should be lost to drugs.

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School Education /

Essay on Drug Abuse in 250 and 500 Words in English for Students

Updated on
Apr 2, 2024

Drug abuse refers to the excessive and frequent consumption of drugs. Drug abuse can have several harmful effects on our mental and physical health. Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the USA, passed the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 and initiated the War on Drugs . He said, ‘Let us not forget who we are. Drug abuse is a repudiation of everything America is.’

Consuming drugs not only harms the individual himself but also affects society as a whole. Studies have shown that people who consume drugs become addicted to it. This addiction turns into substance abuse, resulting in self-damage, behaviour changes, mood swings, unnecessary weight loss, and several other health problems. Let’s understand what drug abuse is and how to fight it.

Table of Contents

1 Essay on Drug Abuse in 250 Words
2.1 Why Do People Consume Drugs?
2.2 Why Is Drug Abuse Bad?
2.3 Laws in India Against Drug Consumption
2.4 Steps to Prevent Drug Addiction
2.5 Conclusion
3 10 Lines Essay on Drug Abuse

Quick Read: Essay on CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act)

Essay on Drug Abuse in 250 Words

‘When people consume drugs regularly and become addicted to it, it is known as drug abuse. In medical terminology, drugs means medicines. However, the consumption of drugs is for non-medical purposes. It involves the consumption of substances in illegal and harmful ways, such as swallowing, inhaling, or injecting. When drugs are consumed, they are mixed into our bloodstream, affecting our neural system and brain functioning.

The Indian government has taken significant steps to help reduce the consumption of drugs. In 1985, the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act came into force. This act replaced the Opium Act of 1857, the Opium Act of 1878, and the Dangerous Drugs Act of 1930.

Drug abuse can lead to addiction, where a person becomes physically or psychologically dependent on the substance and experiences withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop using it.

Drug abuse can have serious consequences for the individual and society as a whole. On an individual level, drugs can damage physical health, including organ damage, infectious diseases, and overdose fatalities. Not only this, a person already suffering from mental health disorders will face more harmful aftereffects. Addiction disrupts our cognitive functioning and impairs our decision-making abilities.

To fight drug abuse, we need collective action from all sections of society. Medical professionals say that early intervention and screening programmes can identify individuals at risk of substance misuse and provide them with the necessary support services. Educating people, especially those who are at-risk, about drug abuse and its harmful effects can significantly help reduce their consumption.

Drug abuse is serious and it must be addressed. Drug abuse is killing youth and society. Therefore, it is an urgent topic to address, and only through sustainable and collective efforts can we address this problem.

Quick Read: Success in Life Speech

Essay on Drug Abuse in 500 Words

Drug abuse is known as frequent consumption. In time, these people become dependent on drugs for several reasons. Curiosity drives adolescents and teenagers, who are among the most susceptible groups in our society. Cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, etc. are some of the popular drugs consumed.

Why Do People Consume Drugs?

The very first question about drugs is: why do people consume drugs? Studies have shown that more than 50% of drug addicts consider drugs as a coping mechanism to alleviate emotional or psychological distress. In the beginning, drugs temporarily relieve feelings of anxiety, depression, or trauma, providing a temporary escape from difficult emotions or life circumstances.

Some consume drugs out of curiosity, some under peer pressure, and some want to escape the painful experiences. Some people enjoy the effects drugs produce, such as euphoria, relaxation, and altered perceptions. Recreational drug use may occur in social settings or as a form of self-medication for stress relief or relaxation.

Why Is Drug Abuse Bad?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse states that drugs can worsen our eyesight and body movement, our physical growth, etc. Marijuana, one of the most popular drugs, can slow down our reaction time, affecting our time and distance judgement and decreasing coordination. Cocaine and Methamphetamine can make the consumer aggressive and careless.

Our brain is the first victim of drugs. Drugs can disorder our body in several ways, from damaging organs to messing with our brains. Drugs easily get mixed into our bloodstream, and affect our neural system. Prolonged and excessive consumption of drugs significantly harms our brain functioning.

The next target of drug abuse is our physical health and relationships. Drugs can damage our vital organs, such as the liver, heart, lungs, and brain. For example, heavy alcohol use can lead to cirrhosis of the liver, while cocaine use can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Laws in India Against Drug Consumption

Here is an interesting thing; the USA has the highest number of drug addicts and also has strict laws against drug consumption. According to a report by the Narcotics Control Bureau, around 9 million people in India consume different types of drugs. The Indian government has implemented certain laws against drug consumption and production.

The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS), prohibits the production, sale, purchase, and consumption of narcotics and other illegal substances, except for scientific and medical purposes.

Also, Article 47 of the Indian Constitution states that ‘ The State shall endeavour to bring about prohibition of the consumption, except for medicinal purposes, of intoxicating drinks and drugs which are injurious to health.’

Quick Read: Essay on Indian Festivals in 500 Words

Steps to Prevent Drug Addiction

Several steps can be taken to prevent drug addiction. But before we start our ‘War on Drugs’ , it is crucial to understand the trigger point. Our social environment, mental health issues and sometimes genetic factors can play a role in drug abuse.

Education and awareness are the primary weapons in the fight against drugs.
Keeping distance from people and places addicted to drugs.
Encourage a healthy and active lifestyle and indulge in physical workouts.
Watch motivating videos and listen to sound music.
Self-motivate yourself to stop consuming drugs.
Talk to a medical professional or a psychiatrist, who will guide you to the right path.

Drug abuse is a serious problem. The excessive and frequent consumption of drugs not only harms the individual but also affects society as a whole. Only a collective approach from lawmakers, healthcare professionals, educators, community leaders, and individuals themselves can combat drug abuse effectively.

Quick Read: Speech About Life

10 Lines Essay on Drug Abuse

Here is a 10-line essay on drug abuse.

Drug abuse can significantly affect our physical growth
Drug abuse can affect our mental functioning.
Drug abuse may provide instant pleasure, but inside, it weakens our willpower and physical strength.
Educating people, especially those who are at-risk, about drug abuse and its harmful effects can significantly help reduce their consumption.
Drugs easily get mixed into our bloodstream, and affect our neural system.
Prolonged and excessive consumption of drugs significantly harms our brain functioning.
In 1985, the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act came into force.
The USA has the highest number of drug addicts and also has strict laws against drug consumption.
Drug addicts consider drugs as a coping mechanism to alleviate emotional or psychological distress.
Adolescents and teenagers are the most vulnerable section of our society and are driven by curiosity.

Ans: Drug abuse refers to the excessive and frequent consumption of drugs. Drug abuse can have several harmful effects on our mental and physical health.

Ans: ‘When people consume drugs regularly and become addicted to it, it is known as drug abuse. In medical terminology, drugs means medicines. However, the consumption of drugs is for non-medical purposes. It involves the consumption of substances in illegal and harmful ways, such as swallowing, inhaling, or injecting. When drugs are consumed, they are mixed into our bloodstream, affecting our neural system and brain functioning.

Ans: Drug abuse is known as frequent consumption. In time, these people become dependent on drugs for several reasons. Adolescents and teenagers are the most vulnerable section of our society who are driven by curiosity. Cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, etc. are some of the popular drugs consumed. The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS), prohibits the production, sale, purchase, and consumption of narcotics and other illegal substances, except for scientific and medical purposes.

Shiva Tyagi

With an experience of over a year, I've developed a passion for writing blogs on wide range of topics. I am mostly inspired from topics related to social and environmental fields, where you come up with a positive outcome.

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5 Minute Speech on Drug Addiction in English for Students

Drug addiction is so common in the world today. It is extremely dangerous and scary. Even children of the age of 11 are addicted to drugs. Imagine the number of cases among older youths. It is frightening to even think of how the world will turn out in the next decade with the case scenario. There is a rise in many drugs today. Lots of lives are lost due to this. We should try our best as the people in the society to eradicate this. Drug addiction should be taught to children about it and its consequences. It can break a person’s life in a snap. The cases of this are rising and now the concern is on many people. The world has decided to set a day for educating the people on this subject matter. This day is called the International Day of Drug Abuse. Every year it runs on different themes. The theme of 2023 is “People first stop stigma and discrimination, strengthen prevention. Uttar Pradesh is said to have the highest number of drug abuse in India. Many students are involved with drugs and according to research, it is stated that more than seventy-five per cent of the students are involved in drug abuse. How sad that is! The causes of this can be many. Some are because of family problems that children find comfort in drugs, some because of peer pressure and many other problems. These students have to be taught, treated and put under special care. Psychologists are much in need in this day where everything that goes up to the brain has a strong linkage with drugs.

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Speech on alcoholism and drug abuse (556 words).

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Speech on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse!

The unusual increase in the uses and abuses of alcohol and various drugs during the last two decades has become a frightening problem. Their adverse effects have produced serious concerns among the sociologists and social scientists.

Image Courtesy : councilonalcoholism.net/images/drgsal.jpg

Parents, guardians, teachers and the public at large, have also been deeply worried about the devastating consequences of alcoholism and drug abuse on the family life, social and personal life. Reports of serious accidents and murders committed during intoxicating states are not uncommon.

It is needless to point out that along with the widespread use of drugs; there is also a lot of misuse of drugs. This misuse leads to abuse of drug or drug dependence. Drug dependence refers to both psychological and physiological dependence. Drug abuse indicates excessive consumption of a drug regardless of whether an individual is truly dependent on it. Drug abuse may however, subsequently lead to drug dependence.

Use of drugs and alcohols is not quite a new thing. In the 6th century B.C. Persians were quite renowned in the use of alcohol. Similarly, people belonging to many early societies and cultures used alcohol extensively.

In India, the wide use of intoxicating drugs like ‘Somarasa’ goes back to around 2000 B.C. Kings and emperors used plenty of alcohols and drugs. In the Ramayana and the Mahabharata also there is reference to the use of drugs. During the Muslim rules in India, along with strong wine opium was used.

The other important drugs used in ancient India were known as cannabis and cocaine opium. In Orissa and some other states of India, women use to administer opium to small children to make them sleep or keep them quiet.

Opium is also taken by the people of Orissa and other states of India, specially by rural people to overcome certain minor illnesses like anxiety and worry, backaches, cold, pain and allied illnesses. In the interior districts of Orissa, tribal men and women take a strong wine named ‘Handia’. It is a type of country wine, very intoxicating in nature.

A psychoactive substance refers to one which when taken into the body can influence consciousness or state of mind. Psychoactive substance induced organic mental disorders have been differentiated from psychoactive substance induced disorders by DSM III-R.

While psychoactive substance induced organic mental disorder refers to the direct, acute or chronic effects of psychoactive substances on the nervous system, psychoactive substance use disorders refer to maladaptive behaviour associated with regular use of psychoactive substances. According to DSM III-R the two diagnosis usually coexist

About 1.4 billion prescriptions for more than 10,000 different chemical substances are written in the United States every year. About 20 per cent of them are for psychoactive or mood changing drugs like tranquilizers, sedatives, stimulants, sleeping pills and analgesics. It is estimated that 50 per cent of the patients suffering from chronic pain take between 1 to 5 pain relievers and 25 per cent of this group develop physical dependence on one of those drugs.

A survey conducted in 1985 shows that use of illicit drugs is more commonly found among the young adult population than among other age groups. It is interesting to note that particularly in the western countries drug use by women is increasing in a faster speed than by the men.

Speech on the Adverse Effects of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse
Recent Indian Studies and Research Work on Smoking, Alcoholism’s and Drug Abuse

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Addiction and Recovery Information

10 Unmissable Ted Talks for Insights into Substance Abuse Recovery and Mental Health

Introduction.

In recent times, the global focus has been on addressing and managing substance abuse and mental health issues. TED conferences stand at the forefront of delivering actionable insights and practical strategies to help individuals in their quest for recovery and improved mental health. With invaluable learning experiences presented by some of the world’s leading experts in the field, these TED Talks will enhance your understanding of the subject matter and provide you with tips to take your recovery and mental health to the next level. Here are ten unmissable TED Talks to help you gain insights into substance abuse recovery and mental health.

1. Johann Hari: Everything You Think You Know About Addiction is Wrong

Johann Hari’s TED Talk offers a refreshing and informative take on addiction, forcing viewers to rethink the true meaning of the word. Hari delves into the scientific and sociological factors that contribute to addiction and discusses how re-evaluating our approach to addicts can lead to more successful recovery programs.

2. Kevin Briggs: The Bridge Between Suicide and Life

Kevin Briggs’ TED Talk shares the heart-wrenching accounts of his role as a patrol officer on the Golden Gate Bridge. Briggs provides unique insights into the field of mental health by recounting the stories of the individuals he has encountered and the importance of lending a listening ear to those struggling with suicidal thoughts.

3. Nadine Burke Harris: How Childhood Trauma Affects Health Across a Lifetime

Nadine Burke Harris’ TED Talk examines the long-lasting impact of childhood trauma on overall health and well-being. Harris presents the correlation between adverse childhood experiences and chances of developing substance abuse and mental health problems later in life. This presentation helps to expand our understanding of the relationship between early-life trauma and long-term health consequences.

4. Eleanor Longden: The Voices in My Head

In her gripping and educational TED Talk , Eleanor Longden recounts her experience with hearing voices and being diagnosed with schizophrenia. Through her personal journey, Longden sheds valuable light on the road to recovery and emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and support in overcoming mental health difficulties.

5. Glenn Greenwald: Why Privacy Matters

Although not specifically targeted at substance abuse recovery or mental health, Glenn Greenwald’s TED Talk provides essential insights into the importance of privacy, which is a fundamental aspect of confidentiality in therapy sessions. This thought-provoking talk highlights the relevance of privacy in maintaining mental well-being and enabling personal growth.

6. Guy Winch: Why We All Need to Practice Emotional First Aid

In this engaging TED Talk , psychologist Guy Winch drives home the notion of practicing emotional first aid. Winch explores the importance of taking care of our emotional well-being, just as we do with our physical health, to help prevent mental health issues and substance abuse relapses.

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7. Brene Brown: The Power of Vulnerability

Brene Brown’s TED Talk delves into the concept of vulnerability, exploring its significance in human connection, empathy, and ultimately, recovery from substance abuse and mental health issues. Brown’s talk offers valuable insights on embracing vulnerability, allowing healing and fostering better connections with others.

8. Thomas Insel: Toward a New Understanding of Mental Illness

Thomas Insel’s TED Talk dives deep into the complexity of mental illness and challenges the preconceived stigma surrounding it. Insel’s presentation is a revelation for those seeking to enhance their understanding and empathy for individuals with mental health challenges and their families.

9. Nora Volkow: Addiction is a Disease of Free Will

In her riveting TED Talk , Dr. Nora Volkow, a leading neuroscientist, delves into the science behind addiction and the impact of drugs on the brain. By helping viewers understand the biological factors that contribute to addiction, Volkow’s talk works towards dismantling the stigma surrounding substance abuse and addiction.

10. Ruby Wax: What’s So Funny About Mental Illness?

In her humorous yet insightful TED Talk , Ruby Wax shares her personal experience with mental illness and discusses the importance of opening up conversations about mental health. Wax’s presentation encourages viewers to embrace humor in their approach to mental health and substance abuse recovery, fostering a more open and positive attitude.

These ten unmissable TED Talks provide a wealth of information and insights for anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of substance abuse recovery and mental health. From exploring the science behind addiction to recognizing the role of trauma and vulnerability in recovery, these presentations offer valuable strategies and tips for making strides in the quest for improved mental well-being.

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Speech on Drug Abuse

Long and short speech on drug abuse in english in simple and easy words.

Long and Short Drug Abuse Speech in English

Speech on Drug Abuse 1

Dear Students – Warm Greetings to all of you! I welcome everyone to the school seminar hall.

Speech on Drug Abuse 2

Good Morning Friends – Welcome to the 77 th campaign for drug addiction ban.

The addiction of drugs has become one of the serious social problems in many developing as well as developed countries and it undeniably proves to be the principal obstruction in the all-round development of the people, society, country and the world at a large. Our country is a progressing country and it is already afflicted with so many other grave problems, such as unemployment, poverty and illiteracy that the problem of drug abuse makes the situation even worse here as it further makes our economy regressive by destroying the lives of its youth.

People can become addicted to drugs because of various reasons, some of which are mentioned below:

In order to de-stress themselves

Out of peer pressure

Many times, people start taking drugs because their friends are addicted to them. However, once they start taking it, it becomes really difficult for them to get rid of this habit.

Style Statement

Speech on Drug Abuse 3

Speech on Drug Abuse 4

Hon’ble Principal, Vice Principal, Fellow Colleagues and My Dear Students – Warm Greetings to one and all!

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Essay on Drug Abuse

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14 Powerful TED Talks Relating to Drug Addiction and Recovery

May 8, 2019

There’s a reason TED Talks’ tagline is “ideas worth spreading.” These influential videos have become widely popular thanks to their raw nature, innovative content, and a vast variety of subjects.

With the widespread issue of drug and alcohol addiction , it’s no surprise that there are a host of inspirational talks in the realm of drug addiction and recovery.

Below are a handful of TED talks on addiction and recovery relating to drug addiction. These videos may just provide the empowerment you need and also shed light on how our culture views addiction, as well as the science behind addiction and recovery in these powerful TED Talks.

1) How Childhood Trauma Affects Health Across a Lifetime by Nadine Burke Harris

Any kind of childhood trauma will have a significant impact on a person’s life. Nadine Burke Harris delves into how this trauma affects the health specifically. Heart disease, mental disorders, and substance abuse are only a few of the areas influenced by trauma. One of the most important points Nadine makes is that it is important to address the root of the problem, and not take a “band-aid approach.”

2) Everything You Know About Addiction is Wrong by Johann Hari

With an in-your-face title like that, you know this talk is going to be worth your while. Johann Hari has spent years traveling around the world to find out what causes addiction and what the solution(s) could be. His innovative ideas may just be the cure for the universal crisis of drug and alcohol addiction.

3) Listening to Shame by Brené Brown

Brené Brown has a knack for presenting unique subjects in a compelling manner, as demonstrated by her previous viral talk, The Power of Vulnerability . In “Listening to Shame,” Brown discusses what can happen when people confront their feelings of shame. This talk is a must-watch for anyone who has struggled with these emotions surrounding drug and alcohol abuse.

4) A Simple Way to Break a Bad Habit by Judson Brewer

While addiction is anything but simple, acclaimed psychiatrist Judson Brewer has a way of breaking down the concept of addictive behavior. Using mindfulness exercises and simplistic techniques, Brewer has helped numerous patients break the habit of addiction. He shares his thoughts in this insightful speech.

5) The Stigma of Addiction | Tony Hoffman

Tony is a former addict who has been dedicating his life to creating awareness by describing the dangers of heroin and prescription pills.

Tony Hoffman became addicted to drugs, went to prison, and lived on the streets. But even after rehabilitated his life, became an Olympic-level BMX coach, the stigma of drug addiction follows him everywhere. He doesn’t let that stop him from being successful, but many others are stopped from achieving success after recovery by the drug addict stigma.

6) How Isolation Fuels Opioid Addiction | Rachel Wurzman

Addiction is a neurological disorder that creates compulsions beyond a person’s control, and disrupts a person’s ability to enjoy social interaction down to the cellular level. Neuroscientist Rachel Wurzman discusses her findings that drug addiction and loneliness are not only connected but are controlled by the same part of the brain. Social isolation contributes to addiction and relapse, but social connectivity can actually help recovery.

7) In the Opioid Crisis, Here’s What it Takes to Save a Life | Jan Rader

Fire chief Jan Rader saves many lives, many of whom are addicts who overdose on opioids. She believes that we need to focus not only on saving lives, but helping those who overdose rebuild lives. Her community is changing the way they work with addicts, creating programs to help them after they are saved from an overdose, as well as the first responders dealing with PTSD .

8) Why We Need to End the War on Drugs | Ethan Nadelmann

Drug policy reformist Ethan Nadelmann breaks down all the moving parts of the United States drug enforcement, and the large disparities between policies and what’s actually happening. He believes that ending the prohibition of drugs and regulating, taxing, and treating drugs the way we do alcohol will kill the stigma and reduce crime. Is the legalization of drugs the answer? Ethan weighs in on his TED talk.

9) Addiction is a Disease: We Should Treat it Like One | Michael Botticelli

Only one in nine people in the U.S. get the care and treatment they need for addiction and substance abuse.*

Nearly every family in America is affected by addiction, but very few people actually talk about it, let alone help people successfully recover from it. Unless we change the way we view people with addiction, we’re unable to change for the better. Listen to Michael Botticelli, who was the Director of National Drug Control Policy under President Obama, discuss how we can help.

10) Recover Out Loud | Tara Conner

Tara Conner was crowned Miss USA in 2006. During December of that same year, Tara entered the Caron Treatment Center for alcohol and drug addiction.

With more than 20 million people in long-term drug recovery, how is it that more people aren’t talking openly about this? If we can reduce the stigma of addiction and allow people to speak more openly about it, she believes we can prevent drug addiction before it starts.

11) Drinking and How it Changed My Life | Ann Dowsett-Johnston

“I was the poster child for today’s modern alcoholic. She is female. She is well educated. She is professional. She is high-functioning…” – Ann Dowsett-Johston

Alcohol marketing is aimed at young women, and many start drinking in high school and develop deadly diseases as young as in their twenties and thirties. Women are drinking more than ever as a form of self-medication to help stress, depression, and the other pressures they face, and because wine doesn’t have the same stigma as drugs, it doesn’t seem like as big of a problem. See how Ann got her life back, and what she’s doing to prevent others from falling victim to addiction.

12) The Power of Addiction and The Addiction of Power | Gabor Maté

Why are some people able to do drugs and avoid becoming addicted, but others cannot? Physician Gabor Mate explains the science between addiction, trauma, and relationships, and how brain development influences addictive tendencies from infancy.

13) Overdose Epidemic: Facing the Hard Truth | Stephen Dass

“The opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety. The opposite of addiction is connection.”

Most of the drug programs in North America are focused on treatment, rather than preventing drug abuse before it starts. By mentoring children at an early age, and nurturing them as they grow, their prospects grow exponentially. Communities are the key to disrupting the overdose trend.

14) What Causes Opioid Addiction and Why is it so Tough to Combat? | Mike Davis

In the 1980s through the 1990s, pharmaceutical companies began to market opioid painkillers aggressively, while downplaying their extremely addictive potential. Needless to say, the number of prescriptions went through the roof and so did cases of addiction, beginning the crisis that still know today.

When opioid use is ceased, the body becomes incredibly sensitive and experiences painful withdrawal effects that make them too ill to function normally. When a person has a relapse, it’s not because they want the drug itself, but because the drug makes their symptoms go away. But with opioid use skyrocketing, getting into treatment is more difficult than ever.

Find more TED talks related to addiction on TED.com

Are you or a loved one struggling with drug or alcohol addiction ? Our Colorado drug recovery center can help. Contact us today at 720-577-4422 or [email protected].

Questions About Treatment?

Address to the Nation on the Campaign Against Drug Abuse

September 14, 1986

The President. Good evening. Usually, I talk with you from my office in the West Wing of the White House. But tonight there's something special to talk about, and I've asked someone very special to join me. Nancy and I are here in the West Hall of the White House, and around us are the rooms in which we live. It's the home you've provided for us, of which we merely have temporary custody.

Nancy 's joining me because the message this evening is not my message but ours. And we speak to you not simply as fellow citizens but as fellow parents and grandparents and as concerned neighbors. It's back-to-school time for America 's children. And while drug and alcohol abuse cuts across all generations, it's especially damaging to the young people on whom our future depends. So tonight, from our family to yours, from our home to yours, thank you for joining us.

America has accomplished so much in these last few years, whether it's been rebuilding our economy or serving the cause of freedom in the world. What we've been able to achieve has been done with your help -- with us working together as a nation united. Now, we need your support again. Drugs are menacing our society. They're threatening our values and undercutting our institutions. They're killing our children.

From the beginning of our administration, we've taken strong steps to do something about this horror. Tonight I can report to you that we've made much progress. Thirty-seven Federal agencies are working together in a vigorous national effort, and by next year our spending for drug law enforcement will have more than tripled from its 1981 levels. We have increased seizures of illegal drugs. Shortages of marijuana are now being reported. Last year alone over 10,000 drug criminals were convicted and nearly $250 million of their assets were seized by the DEA, the Drug Enforcement Administration.

And in the most important area, individual use, we see progress. In 4 years the number of high school seniors using marijuana on a daily basis has dropped from 1 in 14 to 1 in 20. The U.S. military has cut the use of illegal drugs among its personnel by 67 percent since 1980. These are a measure of our commitment and emerging signs that we can defeat this enemy. But we still have much to do.

Despite our best efforts, illegal cocaine is coming into our country at alarming levels, and 4 to 5 million people regularly use it. Five hundred thousand Americans are hooked on heroin. One in twelve persons smokes marijuana regularly. Regular drug use is even higher among the age group 18 to 25 -- most likely just entering the workforce. Today there's a new epidemic: smokable cocaine, otherwise known as crack. It is an explosively destructive and often lethal substance which is crushing its users. It is an uncontrolled fire.

And drug abuse is not a so-called victimless crime. Everyone's safety is at stake when drugs and excessive alcohol are used by people on the highways or by those transporting our citizens or operating industrial equipment. Drug abuse costs you and your fellow Americans at least $60 billion a year.

From the early days of our administration, Nancy has been intensely involved in the effort to fight drug abuse. She has since traveled over 100,000 miles to 55 cities in 28 States and 6 foreign countries to fight school-age drug and alcohol abuse. She's given dozens of speeches and scores of interviews and has participated in 24 special radio and TV tapings to create greater awareness of this crisis. Her personal observations and efforts have given her such dramatic insights that I wanted her to share them with you this evening.

Mrs. Reagan . Thank you. As a mother, I've always thought of September as a special month, a time when we bundled our children off to school, to the warmth of an environment in which they could fulfill the promise and hope in those restless minds. But so much has happened over these last years, so much to shake the foundations of all that we know and all that we believe in. Today there's a drug and alcohol abuse epidemic in this country, and no one is safe from it -- not you, not me, and certainly not our children, because this epidemic has their names written on it. Many of you may be thinking: ``Well, drugs don't concern me.'' But it does concern you. It concerns us all because of the way it tears at our lives and because it's aimed at destroying the brightness and life of the sons and daughters of the United States .

For 5 years I've been traveling across the country -- learning and listening. And one of the most hopeful signs I've seen is the building of an essential, new awareness of how terrible and threatening drug abuse is to our society. This was one of the main purposes when I started, so of course it makes me happy that that's been accomplished. But each time I meet with someone new or receive another letter from a troubled person on drugs, I yearn to find a way to help share the message that cries out from them. As a parent, I'm especially concerned about what drugs are doing to young mothers and their newborn children. Listen to this news account from a hospital in Florida of a child born to a mother with a cocaine habit: " Nearby , a baby named Paul lies motionless in an incubator, feeding tubes riddling his tiny body. He needs a respirator to breathe and a daily spinal tap to relieve fluid buildup on his brain. Only 1 month old, he's already suffered 2 strokes.''

Now you can see why drug abuse concerns every one of us -- all the American family. Drugs steal away so much. They take and take, until finally every time a drug goes into a child, something else is forced out -- like love and hope and trust and confidence. Drugs take away the dream from every child's heart and replace it with a nightmare, and it's time we in America stand up and replace those dreams. Each of us has to put our principles and consciences on the line, whether in social settings or in the workplace, to set forth solid standards and stick to them. There's no moral middle ground. Indifference is not an option. We want you to help us create an outspoken intolerance for drug use. For the sake of our children, I implore each of you to be unyielding and inflexible in your opposition to drugs.

Our young people are helping us lead the way. Not long ago, in Oakland, California, I was asked by a group of children what to do if they were offered drugs, and I answered, "Just say no.'' Soon after that, those children in Oakland formed a Just Say No club, and now there are over 10,000 such clubs all over the country. Well, their participation and their courage in saying no needs our encouragement. We can help by using every opportunity to force the issue of not using drugs to the point of making others uncomfortable, even if it means making ourselves unpopular.

Our job is never easy because drug criminals are ingenious. They work everyday to plot a new and better way to steal our children's lives, just as they've done by developing this new drug, crack. For every door that we close, they open a new door to death. They prosper on our unwillingness to act. So, we must be smarter and stronger and tougher than they are. It's up to us to change attitudes and just simply dry up their markets.

And finally, to young people watching or listening, I have a very personal message for you: There's a big, wonderful world out there for you. It belongs to you. It's exciting and stimulating and rewarding. Don't cheat yourselves out of this promise. Our country needs you, but it needs you to be clear-eyed and clear-minded. I recently read one teenager's story. She's now determined to stay clean but was once strung out on several drugs. What she remembered most clearly about her recovery was that during the time she was on drugs everything appeared to her in shades of black and gray and after her treatment she was able to see colors again.

So, to my young friends out there: Life can be great, but not when you can't see it . So, open your eyes to life: to see it in the vivid colors that God gave us as a precious gift to His children, to enjoy life to the fullest, and to make it count. Say yes to your life. And when it comes to drugs and alcohol just say no.

The President. I think you can see why Nancy has been such a positive influence on all that we're trying to do. The job ahead of us is very clear. Nancy 's personal crusade, like that of so many other wonderful individuals, should become our national crusade. It must include a combination of government and private efforts which complement one another. Last month I announced six initiatives which we believe will do just that.

First, we seek a drug-free workplace at all levels of government and in the private sector. Second, we'll work toward drug-free schools. Third, we want to ensure that the public is protected and that treatment is available to substance abusers and the chemically dependent. Our fourth goal is to expand international cooperation while treating drug trafficking as a threat to our national security. In October I will be meeting with key U.S. Ambassadors to discuss what can be done to support our friends abroad. Fifth, we must move to strengthen law enforcement activities such as those initiated by Vice President Bush and Attorney General Meese . And finally, we seek to expand public awareness and prevention.

In order to further implement these six goals, I will announce tomorrow a series of new proposals for a drug-free America . Taken as a whole, these proposals will toughen our laws against drug criminals, encourage more research and treatment, and ensure that illegal drugs will not be tolerated in our schools or in our workplaces. Together with our ongoing efforts, these proposals will bring the Federal commitment to fighting drugs to $3 billion. As much financing as we commit, however, we would be fooling ourselves if we thought that massive new amounts of money alone will provide the solution. Let us not forget that in America people solve problems and no national crusade has ever succeeded without human investment. Winning the crusade against drugs will not be achieved by just throwing money at the problem.

Your government will continue to act aggressively, but nothing would be more effective than for Americans simply to quit using illegal drugs. We seek to create a massive change in national attitudes which ultimately will separate the drugs from the customer, to take the user away from the supply. I believe, quite simply, that we can help them quit, and that's where you come in.

My generation will remember how America swung into action when we were attacked in World War II. The war was not just fought by the fellows flying the planes or driving the tanks. It was fought at home by a mobilized nation -- men and women alike -- building planes and ships, clothing sailors and soldiers, feeding marines and airmen; and it was fought by children planting victory gardens and collecting cans. Well, now we're in another war for our freedom, and it's time for all of us to pull together again. So, for example, if your friend or neighbor or a family member has a drug or alcohol problem, don't turn the other way. Go to his help or to hers. Get others involved with you -- clubs, service groups, and community organizations -- and provide support and strength. And, of course, many of you've been cured through treatment and self-help. Well, you're the combat veterans, and you have a critical role to play. You can help others by telling your story and providing a willing hand to those in need. Being friends to others is the best way of being friends to ourselves. It's time, as Nancy said, for America to ``just say no'' to drugs.

Those of you in union halls and workplaces everywhere: Please make this challenge a part of your job every day. Help us preserve the health and dignity of all workers. To businesses large and small: We need the creativity of your enterprise applied directly to this national problem. Help us. And those of you who are educators: Your wisdom and leadership are indispensable to this cause. From the pulpits of this spirit-filled land: We would welcome your reassuring message of redemption and forgiveness and of helping one another. On the athletic fields: You men and women are among the most beloved citizens of our country. A child's eyes fill with your heroic achievements. Few of us can give youngsters something as special and strong to look up to as you. Please don't let them down.

And this camera in front of us: It's a reminder that in Nancy's and my former profession and in the newsrooms and production rooms of our media centers -- you have a special opportunity with your enormous influence to send alarm signals across the Nation. To our friends in foreign countries: We know many of you are involved in this battle with us. We need your success as well as ours. When we all come together, united, striving for this cause, then those who are killing America and terrorizing it with slow but sure chemical destruction will see that they are up against the mightiest force for good that we know. Then they will have no dark alleyways to hide in.

In this crusade, let us not forget who we are. Drug abuse is a repudiation of everything America is. The destructiveness and human wreckage mock our heritage. Think for a moment how special it is to be an American. Can we doubt that only a divine providence placed this land, this island of freedom, here as a refuge for all those people on the world who yearn to breathe free?

The revolution out of which our liberty was conceived signaled an historical call to an entire world seeking hope. Each new arrival of immigrants rode the crest of that hope. They came, millions seeking a safe harbor from the oppression of cruel regimes. They came, to escape starvation and disease. They came, those surviving the Holocaust and the Soviet gulags. They came, the boat people, chancing death for even a glimmer of hope that they could have a new life. They all came to taste the air redolent and rich with the freedom that is ours. What an insult it will be to what we are and whence we came if we do not rise up together in defiance against this cancer of drugs.

And there's one more thing. The freedom that so many seek in our land has not been preserved without a price. Nancy and I shared that remembrance 2 years ago at the Normandy American Cemetery in France . In the still of that June afternoon, we walked together among the soldiers of freedom, past the hundreds of white markers which are monuments to courage and memorials to sacrifice. Too many of these and other such graves are the final resting places of teenagers who became men in the roar of battle.

Look what they gave to us who live. Never would they see another sunlit day glistening off a lake or river back home or miles of corn pushing up against the open sky of our plains. The pristine air of our mountains and the driving energy of our cities are theirs no more. Nor would they ever again be a son to their parents or a father to their own children. They did this for you, for me, for a new generation to carry our democratic experiment proudly forward. Well, that's something I think we're obliged to honor, because what they did for us means that we owe as a simple act of civic stewardship to use our freedom wisely for the common good.

As we mobilize for this national crusade, I'm mindful that drugs are a constant temptation for millions. Please remember this when your courage is tested: You are Americans. You're the product of the freest society mankind has ever known. No one, ever, has the right to destroy your dreams and shatter your life.

Right down the end of this hall is the Lincoln Bedroom. But in the Civil War that room was the one President Lincoln used as his office. Memory fills that room, and more than anything that memory drives us to see vividly what President Lincoln sought to save. Above all, it is that America must stand for something and that our heritage lets us stand with a strength of character made more steely by each layer of challenge pressed upon the Nation. We Americans have never been morally neutral against any form of tyranny. Tonight we're asking no more than that we honor what we have been and what we are by standing together.

Mrs. Reagan. Now we go on to the next stop: making a final commitment not to tolerate drugs by anyone, anytime, anyplace. So, won't you join us in this great, new national crusade?

The President. God bless you, and good night.

Note: The President spoke at 8 p.m. from the Residence at the White House. The address was broadcast live on nationwide radio and television.

Patient Care & Health Information
Diseases & Conditions
Drug addiction (substance use disorder)

Drug addiction, also called substance use disorder, is a disease that affects a person's brain and behavior and leads to an inability to control the use of a legal or illegal drug or medicine. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. When you're addicted, you may continue using the drug despite the harm it causes.

Drug addiction can start with experimental use of a recreational drug in social situations, and, for some people, the drug use becomes more frequent. For others, particularly with opioids, drug addiction begins when they take prescribed medicines or receive them from others who have prescriptions.

The risk of addiction and how fast you become addicted varies by drug. Some drugs, such as opioid painkillers, have a higher risk and cause addiction more quickly than others.

As time passes, you may need larger doses of the drug to get high. Soon you may need the drug just to feel good. As your drug use increases, you may find that it's increasingly difficult to go without the drug. Attempts to stop drug use may cause intense cravings and make you feel physically ill. These are called withdrawal symptoms.

Help from your health care provider, family, friends, support groups or an organized treatment program can help you overcome your drug addiction and stay drug-free.

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Drug addiction symptoms or behaviors include, among others:

Feeling that you have to use the drug regularly — daily or even several times a day
Having intense urges for the drug that block out any other thoughts
Over time, needing more of the drug to get the same effect
Taking larger amounts of the drug over a longer period of time than you intended
Making certain that you maintain a supply of the drug
Spending money on the drug, even though you can't afford it
Not meeting obligations and work responsibilities, or cutting back on social or recreational activities because of drug use
Continuing to use the drug, even though you know it's causing problems in your life or causing you physical or psychological harm
Doing things to get the drug that you normally wouldn't do, such as stealing
Driving or doing other risky activities when you're under the influence of the drug
Spending a good deal of time getting the drug, using the drug or recovering from the effects of the drug
Failing in your attempts to stop using the drug
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you attempt to stop taking the drug

Recognizing unhealthy drug use in family members

Sometimes it's difficult to distinguish normal teenage moodiness or anxiety from signs of drug use. Possible signs that your teenager or other family member is using drugs include:

Problems at school or work — frequently missing school or work, a sudden disinterest in school activities or work, or a drop in grades or work performance
Physical health issues — lack of energy and motivation, weight loss or gain, or red eyes
Neglected appearance — lack of interest in clothing, grooming or looks
Changes in behavior — major efforts to bar family members from entering the teenager's room or being secretive about going out with friends; or drastic changes in behavior and in relationships with family and friends
Money issues — sudden requests for money without a reasonable explanation; or your discovery that money is missing or has been stolen or that items have disappeared from your home, indicating maybe they're being sold to support drug use

Recognizing signs of drug use or intoxication

Signs and symptoms of drug use or intoxication may vary, depending on the type of drug. Below you'll find several examples.

Marijuana, hashish and other cannabis-containing substances

People use cannabis by smoking, eating or inhaling a vaporized form of the drug. Cannabis often precedes or is used along with other substances, such as alcohol or illegal drugs, and is often the first drug tried.

Signs and symptoms of recent use can include:

A sense of euphoria or feeling "high"
A heightened sense of visual, auditory and taste perception
Increased blood pressure and heart rate
Decreased coordination
Difficulty concentrating or remembering
Slowed reaction time
Anxiety or paranoid thinking
Cannabis odor on clothes or yellow fingertips
Major cravings for certain foods at unusual times

Long-term use is often associated with:

Decreased mental sharpness
Poor performance at school or at work
Ongoing cough and frequent lung infections

K2, Spice and bath salts

Two groups of synthetic drugs — synthetic cannabinoids and substituted or synthetic cathinones — are illegal in most states. The effects of these drugs can be dangerous and unpredictable, as there is no quality control and some ingredients may not be known.

Synthetic cannabinoids, also called K2 or Spice, are sprayed on dried herbs and then smoked, but can be prepared as an herbal tea. A liquid form can be vaporized in electronic cigarettes. Despite manufacturer claims, these are chemical compounds rather than "natural" or harmless products. These drugs can produce a "high" similar to marijuana and have become a popular but dangerous alternative.

Elevated mood
An altered sense of visual, auditory and taste perception
Extreme anxiety or agitation
Hallucinations
Increased heart rate and blood pressure or heart attack
Violent behavior

Substituted cathinones, also called "bath salts," are mind-altering (psychoactive) substances similar to amphetamines such as ecstasy (MDMA) and cocaine. Packages are often labeled as other products to avoid detection.

Despite the name, these are not bath products such as Epsom salts. Substituted cathinones can be eaten, snorted, inhaled or injected and are highly addictive. These drugs can cause severe intoxication, which results in dangerous health effects or even death.

Feeling "high"
Increased sociability
Increased energy and agitation
Increased sex drive
Increased heart rate and blood pressure
Problems thinking clearly
Loss of muscle control
Panic attacks
Psychotic and violent behavior

Barbiturates, benzodiazepines and hypnotics

Barbiturates, benzodiazepines and hypnotics are prescription central nervous system depressants. They're often used and misused in search for a sense of relaxation or a desire to "switch off" or forget stress-related thoughts or feelings.

Barbiturates. An example is phenobarbital.
Benzodiazepines. Examples include sedatives, such as diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), clonazepam (Klonopin) and chlordiazepoxide (Librium).
Hypnotics. Examples include prescription sleeping medicines such as zolpidem (Ambien) and zaleplon (Sonata).
Slurred speech
Lack of coordination
Irritability or changes in mood
Problems concentrating or thinking clearly
Memory problems
Involuntary eye movements
Lack of inhibition
Slowed breathing and reduced blood pressure
Falls or accidents

Meth, cocaine and other stimulants

Stimulants include amphetamines, meth (methamphetamine), cocaine, methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, others) and amphetamine-dextroamphetamine (Adderall XR, Mydayis). They're often used and misused in search of a "high," or to boost energy, to improve performance at work or school, or to lose weight or control appetite.

Feeling of happy excitement and too much confidence
Increased alertness
Increased energy and restlessness
Behavior changes or aggression
Rapid or rambling speech
Larger than usual pupils, the black circles in the middle of the eyes
Confusion, delusions and hallucinations
Irritability, anxiety or paranoia
Changes in heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature
Nausea or vomiting with weight loss
Poor judgment
Nasal congestion and damage to the mucous membrane of the nose (if snorting drugs)
Mouth sores, gum disease and tooth decay from smoking drugs ("meth mouth")
Depression as the drug wears off

Club drugs are commonly used at clubs, concerts and parties. Examples include methylenedioxymethamphetamine, also called MDMA, ecstasy or molly, and gamma-hydroxybutyric acid, known as GHB. Other examples include ketamine and flunitrazepam or Rohypnol — a brand used outside the U.S. — also called roofie. These drugs are not all in the same category, but they share some similar effects and dangers, including long-term harmful effects.

Because GHB and flunitrazepam can cause sedation, muscle relaxation, confusion and memory loss, the potential for sexual misconduct or sexual assault is associated with the use of these drugs.

Signs and symptoms of use of club drugs can include:

Larger than usual pupils
Chills and sweating
Involuntary shaking (tremors)
Behavior changes
Muscle cramping and teeth clenching
Muscle relaxation, poor coordination or problems moving
Reduced inhibitions
Heightened or altered sense of sight, sound and taste
Memory problems or loss of memory
Reduced consciousness
Increased or decreased heart rate and blood pressure

Hallucinogens

Use of hallucinogens can produce different signs and symptoms, depending on the drug. The most common hallucinogens are lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and phencyclidine (PCP).

LSD use may cause:

Greatly reduced perception of reality, for example, interpreting input from one of your senses as another, such as hearing colors
Impulsive behavior
Rapid shifts in emotions
Permanent mental changes in perception
Rapid heart rate and high blood pressure
Flashbacks, a reexperience of the hallucinations — even years later

PCP use may cause:

A feeling of being separated from your body and surroundings
Problems with coordination and movement
Aggressive, possibly violent behavior
Lack of pain sensation
Increase in blood pressure and heart rate
Problems with thinking and memory
Problems speaking
Intolerance to loud noise
Sometimes seizures or coma

Signs and symptoms of inhalant use vary, depending on the substance. Some commonly inhaled substances include glue, paint thinners, correction fluid, felt tip marker fluid, gasoline, cleaning fluids and household aerosol products. Due to the toxic nature of these substances, users may develop brain damage or sudden death.

Signs and symptoms of use can include:

Possessing an inhalant substance without a reasonable explanation
Brief happy excitement
Behaving as if drunk
Reduced ability to keep impulses under control
Aggressive behavior or eagerness to fight
Nausea or vomiting
Appearing under the influence of drugs, with slurred speech, slow movements and poor coordination
Irregular heartbeats
Lingering odor of inhalant material
Rash around the nose and mouth

Opioid painkillers

Opioids are narcotic, painkilling drugs produced from opium or made synthetically. This class of drugs includes, among others, heroin, morphine, codeine, methadone, fentanyl and oxycodone.

Sometimes called the "opioid epidemic," addiction to opioid prescription pain medicines has reached an alarming rate across the United States. Some people who've been using opioids over a long period of time may need physician-prescribed temporary or long-term drug substitution during treatment.

Signs and symptoms of narcotic use and dependence can include:

A sense of feeling "high"
Reduced sense of pain
Agitation, drowsiness or sedation
Problems with attention and memory
Pupils that are smaller than usual
Lack of awareness or inattention to surrounding people and things
Problems with coordination
Constipation
Runny nose or nose sores (if snorting drugs)
Needle marks (if injecting drugs)

When to see a doctor

If your drug use is out of control or causing problems, get help. The sooner you seek help, the greater your chances for a long-term recovery. Talk with your health care provider or see a mental health provider, such as a doctor who specializes in addiction medicine or addiction psychiatry, or a licensed alcohol and drug counselor.

Make an appointment to see a provider if:

You can't stop using a drug
You continue using the drug despite the harm it causes
Your drug use has led to unsafe behavior, such as sharing needles or unprotected sex
You think you may be having withdrawal symptoms after stopping drug use

If you're not ready to approach a health care provider or mental health professional, help lines or hotlines may be a good place to learn about treatment. You can find these lines listed on the internet or in the phone book.

When to seek emergency help

Seek emergency help if you or someone you know has taken a drug and:

May have overdosed
Shows changes in consciousness
Has trouble breathing
Has seizures or convulsions
Has signs of a possible heart attack, such as chest pain or pressure
Has any other troublesome physical or psychological reaction to use of the drug

Staging an intervention

People struggling with addiction usually deny they have a problem and hesitate to seek treatment. An intervention presents a loved one with a structured opportunity to make changes before things get even worse and can motivate someone to seek or accept help.

It's important to plan an intervention carefully. It may be done by family and friends in consultation with a health care provider or mental health professional such as a licensed alcohol and drug counselor, or directed by an intervention professional. It involves family and friends and sometimes co-workers, clergy or others who care about the person struggling with addiction.

During the intervention, these people gather together to have a direct, heart-to-heart conversation with the person about the consequences of addiction. Then they ask the person to accept treatment.

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Like many mental health disorders, several factors may contribute to development of drug addiction. The main factors are:

Environment. Environmental factors, including your family's beliefs and attitudes and exposure to a peer group that encourages drug use, seem to play a role in initial drug use.
Genetics. Once you've started using a drug, the development into addiction may be influenced by inherited (genetic) traits, which may delay or speed up the disease progression.

Changes in the brain

Physical addiction appears to occur when repeated use of a drug changes the way your brain feels pleasure. The addicting drug causes physical changes to some nerve cells (neurons) in your brain. Neurons use chemicals called neurotransmitters to communicate. These changes can remain long after you stop using the drug.

Risk factors

People of any age, sex or economic status can become addicted to a drug. Certain factors can affect the likelihood and speed of developing an addiction:

Family history of addiction. Drug addiction is more common in some families and likely involves an increased risk based on genes. If you have a blood relative, such as a parent or sibling, with alcohol or drug addiction, you're at greater risk of developing a drug addiction.
Mental health disorder. If you have a mental health disorder such as depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or post-traumatic stress disorder, you're more likely to become addicted to drugs. Using drugs can become a way of coping with painful feelings, such as anxiety, depression and loneliness, and can make these problems even worse.
Peer pressure. Peer pressure is a strong factor in starting to use and misuse drugs, particularly for young people.
Lack of family involvement. Difficult family situations or lack of a bond with your parents or siblings may increase the risk of addiction, as can a lack of parental supervision.
Early use. Using drugs at an early age can cause changes in the developing brain and increase the likelihood of progressing to drug addiction.
Taking a highly addictive drug. Some drugs, such as stimulants, cocaine or opioid painkillers, may result in faster development of addiction than other drugs. Smoking or injecting drugs can increase the potential for addiction. Taking drugs considered less addicting — so-called "light drugs" — can start you on a pathway of drug use and addiction.

Complications

Drug use can have significant and damaging short-term and long-term effects. Taking some drugs can be particularly risky, especially if you take high doses or combine them with other drugs or alcohol. Here are some examples.

Methamphetamine, opiates and cocaine are highly addictive and cause multiple short-term and long-term health consequences, including psychotic behavior, seizures or death due to overdose. Opioid drugs affect the part of the brain that controls breathing, and overdose can result in death. Taking opioids with alcohol increases this risk.
GHB and flunitrazepam may cause sedation, confusion and memory loss. These so-called "date rape drugs" are known to impair the ability to resist unwanted contact and recollection of the event. At high doses, they can cause seizures, coma and death. The danger increases when these drugs are taken with alcohol.
MDMA — also known as molly or ecstasy — can interfere with the body's ability to regulate temperature. A severe spike in body temperature can result in liver, kidney or heart failure and death. Other complications can include severe dehydration, leading to seizures. Long-term, MDMA can damage the brain.
One particular danger of club drugs is that the liquid, pill or powder forms of these drugs available on the street often contain unknown substances that can be harmful, including other illegally manufactured or pharmaceutical drugs.
Due to the toxic nature of inhalants, users may develop brain damage of different levels of severity. Sudden death can occur even after a single exposure.

Other life-changing complications

Dependence on drugs can create a number of dangerous and damaging complications, including:

Getting an infectious disease. People who are addicted to a drug are more likely to get an infectious disease, such as HIV , either through unsafe sex or by sharing needles with others.
Other health problems. Drug addiction can lead to a range of both short-term and long-term mental and physical health problems. These depend on what drug is taken.
Accidents. People who are addicted to drugs are more likely to drive or do other dangerous activities while under the influence.
Suicide. People who are addicted to drugs die by suicide more often than people who aren't addicted.
Family problems. Behavioral changes may cause relationship or family conflict and custody issues.
Work issues. Drug use can cause declining performance at work, absenteeism and eventual loss of employment.
Problems at school. Drug use can negatively affect academic performance and motivation to excel in school.
Legal issues. Legal problems are common for drug users and can stem from buying or possessing illegal drugs, stealing to support the drug addiction, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or disputes over child custody.
Financial problems. Spending money to support drug use takes away money from other needs, could lead to debt, and can lead to illegal or unethical behaviors.

The best way to prevent an addiction to a drug is not to take the drug at all. If your health care provider prescribes a drug with the potential for addiction, use care when taking the drug and follow instructions.

Health care providers should prescribe these medicines at safe doses and amounts and monitor their use so that you're not given too great a dose or for too long a time. If you feel you need to take more than the prescribed dose of a medicine, talk to your health care provider.

Preventing drug misuse in children and teenagers

Take these steps to help prevent drug misuse in your children and teenagers:

Communicate. Talk to your children about the risks of drug use and misuse.
Listen. Be a good listener when your children talk about peer pressure and be supportive of their efforts to resist it.
Set a good example. Don't misuse alcohol or addictive drugs. Children of parents who misuse drugs are at greater risk of drug addiction.
Strengthen the bond. Work on your relationship with your children. A strong, stable bond between you and your child will reduce your child's risk of using or misusing drugs.

Preventing a relapse

Once you've been addicted to a drug, you're at high risk of falling back into a pattern of addiction. If you do start using the drug, it's likely you'll lose control over its use again — even if you've had treatment and you haven't used the drug for some time.

Follow your treatment plan. Monitor your cravings. It may seem like you've recovered and you don't need to keep taking steps to stay drug-free. But your chances of staying drug-free will be much higher if you continue seeing your therapist or counselor, going to support group meetings and taking prescribed medicine.
Avoid high-risk situations. Don't go back to the neighborhood where you used to get your drugs. And stay away from your old drug crowd.
Get help immediately if you use the drug again. If you start using the drug again, talk to your health care provider, your mental health provider or someone else who can help you right away.

Drug addiction (substance use disorder) care at Mayo Clinic

Substance-related and addictive disorders. In: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders DSM-5. 5th ed. American Psychiatric Association; 2013. https://dsm.psychiatryonline.org. Accessed Aug. 15, 2022.
Brown AY. Allscripts EPSi. Mayo Clinic. April 13, 2021.
DrugFacts: Understanding drug use and addiction. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/understanding-drug-use-addiction. Accessed Aug. 15, 2022.
American Psychiatric Association. What is a substance use disorder? https://psychiatry.org/patients-families/addiction-substance-use-disorders/what-is-a-substance-use-disorder. Accessed Sept. 2, 2022.
Eddie D, et al. Lived experience in new models of care for substance use disorder: A systematic review of peer recovery support services and recovery coaching. Frontiers in Psychology. 2019; doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01052.
Commonly used drugs charts. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://www.drugabuse.gov/drug-topics/commonly-used-drugs-charts. Accessed Aug. 16, 2022.
Drugs, brains, and behavior: The science of addiction. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/drug-misuse-addiction. Accessed Aug. 16, 2022.
Drugs of abuse: A DEA resource guide/2020 edition. United States Drug Enforcement Administration. https://admin.dea.gov/documents/2020/2020-04/2020-04-13/drugs-abuse. Accessed Aug. 31, 2022.
Misuse of prescription drugs research report. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/misuse-prescription-drugs/overview. Accessed Aug. 17, 2022.
Principles of drug addiction treatment: A research-based guide. 3rd ed. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/preface. Accessed Aug. 17, 2022.
The science of drug use: A resource for the justice sector. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/drug-topics/criminal-justice/science-drug-use-resource-justice-sector. Accessed Sept. 2, 2022.
Naloxone DrugFacts. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/naloxone. Accessed Aug. 31, 2022.
Drug and substance use in adolescents. Merck Manual Professional Version. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/pediatrics/problems-in-adolescents/drug-and-substance-use-in-adolescents. Accessed Sept. 2, 2022.
DrugFacts: Synthetic cannabinoids (K2/Spice). National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/synthetic-cannabinoids-k2spice. Accessed Aug. 18, 2022.
Hall-Flavin DK (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. March 5, 2021.
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United Nations

Office on drugs and crime.

Information For

26 May 2003 Stockholm, Sweden

Young People and Drug Abuse: Prevention and Treatment Bliss technology won't bring back lost paradise Hell on earth is more likely

Your Majesty Queen Silvia, Distinguished Members of Parliaments, Ladies and Gentlemen

Last March, I addressed the Stockholm Symposium on Cannabis. I am back to this wonderful city thanks to the Swedish Government and in particular to the National Drug Policy Coordinator, Mr. Fries, our host.

Our subject is Young people and drug abuse : a compelling subject, so very appropriate for the distinguished members of the many parliaments represented here. My belief is that, working together during the next couple of days, we shall demonstrate that successful (drug) policy, aimed at youth, can have a human touch.

It is about the compassionate heart of drug policy that I wish to speak. And I shall do so, not to launch a new slogan, but as a tribute to you, Queen Silvia, whom I salute as the symbol of Sweden's commitment to save young lives from addiction. Your call for the "right to hope" in a life, both exciting and drug-free, was the wonderful testimonial you brought to political leaders attending the United Nations General Assembly Special Session on drugs in 1998.

Five years since your call, the world drug situation has changed dramatically. To some extent change has been for the better. Yet this undeniable progress has not gone as far or as fast, as we had desired. In part this is because the rules of the drug game kept on changing, at times forcing governments to chase -- rather than to lead -- events. This message I delivered to Ministers last April, during the meeting of the Commission of Narcotic Drugs. But we should not only point to unpredictable changes in external circumstances - they are part of life. We should also have the courage to blame ourselves: our children's "right to hope" is indeed intertwined with our societies' ability to deliver the conditions for that hope to materialize. And, at present, not all societies are equally committed to control the drug problem.

I remain convinced that we shall make better, and faster, progress towards a world not threatened by drug trafficking and drug abuse if, and only if, we stay the course defined by the international Conventions (of 1961, 1971 and 1988) and further mapped out in New York in 1998. Yet, although necessary, staying the course is not a sufficient condition. We also need to make clear the consequences of changing the course -- something not done adequately so far.

We need to communicate louder and clearer that the risks involved in abandoning half a century of drug controls are so high and the resulting public costs and private suffering so big, that the Conventions are not up for negotiation. This was the Ministers' unanimous view in Vienna last month. What is under consideration, starting here, today in Stockholm, are the ways and means to account for the dramatic changes taking place in the world of drugs, so that governments can maintain control of the situation and lead. I look forward to listening to the debate. As a contribution to it, let me consider three issues that deserve, I believe, special attention.

My first proposition is the following: drug abuse among young people, while not a normal occurrence, could become such . The chemical technology of bliss -- namely, the consumption of synthetic substances, like ecstasy and speed -- is blurring the notion of drug addiction as parents and governments alike are confused about the severity of their impact. Not surprisingly, in the last decade, the consumption of bliss substances by young people has become more serious than in the past.

My second proposition follows from the preceding one: while societies' sufferings are similar, governments' responses differ . They range from benign neglect of substance abuse, to robust intervention against it. These differences magnify the misunderstanding in society and facilitate the spread of misinformation about which country is doing what about the drug problem - including the related costs and consequences.

My third proposition brings the argument forward by calling for joint action: drug risks for the young are no longer confined within national borders . Today's culture has abolished time and space. Life styles are shared instantly and internationally. The presence here of parliamentarians from so many countries is an excellent opportunity to realize 1) that the problems your constituencies face are not unique, and 2) that we must therefore develop a shared understanding of what needs to be done.

Bliss technology is on the rise

Let me offer you some facts on the first proposition. There was already some discussion on cannabis during the international symposium held here last March. In the second half of the '90s, cannabis abuse throughout Europe increased dramatically among students. In some countries (Denmark, the Czech Republic, and Italy, to name just a few), lifetime use almost doubled, reaching the 25-35% range. Almost all other European countries registered an increase in the same period (ESPAD survey 1995 and 1999).

Thanks to another variation on the technology of bliss (in this case, genetic engineering of plants), the active ingredients of cannabis have become much stronger. Today, we find up to 20 per cent THC in cannabis compared to a fraction of that amount (2-3%) in the 1960s. (I still remember the smell of the weak marijuana smoked by the "flower kids" in Berkeley, my alma mater.) Even though more research is needed, the increased THC level may result in even more problems for quite a number of young people.

Stronger cannabis is only one item on young people's bliss technology-menu. The increasingly popular dish on the menu is synthetic drugs in general, ecstasy and speed in particular. In the United States, lifetime use of ecstasy among 12th graders has almost doubled (to 10.5%) since 1996 (Monitoring the Future survey, 2002). Ecstasy abuse has also increased considerably in Eastern Europe and Russia. Only in Western Europe has its consumption declined (from a relatively high level), as it has for cannabis (ESPAD surveys 1995 and 1999).

We therefore have a growing number of reports of serious health consequences, even among first-time abusers. Though such consequences may not be immediately visible, ecstasy's neurotoxins impact the brain and hurt major organs (liver and heart).

As synthetic drugs are simple to produce with ordinary chemicals, are simpler to take, and are (erroneously) perceived to be relatively harmless, the threat posed by their consumption is enormous. I have called them "Public Enemy Number 1". They may, in a not too distant future, replace organic drugs at the top of the list.

Although I have mainly spoken about rich countries (which are, as we all know, at the origin of the bliss technology production), manufacturing and addiction are spreading to other parts of the world: for example, to the Far East, where the problem has turned into an alarming epidemic. Slowly, young people in developing countries are catching up with the experience of their northern peers.

Although I have dealt with cannabis and ecstasy separately, they are not separate in young people's minds or experience, as poly-drug abuse is on the rise. It is actually at the origin of an increased number of deaths around the world - a sort of stealth cause of death, as many of them are not attributed to bliss technology products.

My first conclusion is the following: alarm bells should be ringing all over the world. The data about adolescents are especially worrisome, as adolescents are establishing behavioural patterns that will accompany them for a lifetime. On the front, however, news is not so good.

Mixed responses to a common problem

Indeed, and this is my second point, not everyone seems to hear the alarm bells. Responses in various countries have been mixed.

Some countries are maintaining a fatalistic approach, even benign neglect. Somehow, families, educators, and governments alike consider drug abuse as an inevitable part, and not an exception, of growing up.

This attitude has stretched up to the acceptance of policies such as testing of pills in discos to prevent the "unsafe" ingestion of unknown chemicals. The dubious message being sent out is that it is relatively "safe" to use these pills once they are checked. It is ironical that we test people on the road (namely, after alcohol consumption) to prevent drunken driving, and we test pills (namely, before intake), thus condoning driving under drug intoxication. And then we read on Monday's papers about the weekend road massacres!

The wish to "stand outside oneself" (the original meaning of the Greek word ekstasis ) has accompanied human beings from the moment they exited the Garden of Eden. Not surprisingly the temptation is still there, and the call still strong. Yet, how different is the ekstasis brought about by one's control of the mind as practiced by ascetics and hermits in the past, and the one induced by the technology of bliss today.

Karen Armstrong has recently described these differences quite aptly (The Guardian, 23 May 2003). " Our desire for transcendence and unfettered bliss has got out of control. Today young people simply swallow a pill and enjoy states of mind that have formerly been the preserve of a few highly talented mystics, but without the traditional safeguards " (first difference). She adds: " the purveyors of ecstasies are no longer well meaning, highly trained priests. They are unscrupulous dealers who have no concern for their victims, many of whom die in the search of joy, liberation and transcendence " (second difference).

At a time when religion is fading, family bonds are weakening and society is splintering, the technology of bliss poses a new, enormous threat. It "promises" young people to become Saturday-night "masters of the universe". Law enforcement alone cannot control this compulsion for ekstasis . Since these changes are societal, society as a whole needs to share the responsibility. I thus invite the parliamentarians in this Hall, true representatives of society, to examine what they can do to help.

The need for a common response

Countries apply the Conventions on drug control in accordance with local conditions. Yet, the increase in abuse among young people is no longer a matter of national variations. It is a global trend, driven by an increasingly global culture and increasingly trans-national crime syndicates. We need a common response. Above all, we should not think of backing down from the overall commitment to protect the health of our youth.

This commitment was unanimously confirmed at the recent Ministerial meeting in Vienna. The Drug Commission confirmed the importance of current international drug control mechanisms. Ministers stressed the need for innovative prevention based on experience. Here lies another gap: prevention efforts do not always speak clearly to youth and to the pressures they are increasingly facing.

For greater impact, we need to:

Understand how young people perceive drugs in their life, and develop our prevention efforts based on that;
Increase the confidence of young people so that they can deal with their problems, without turning to drugs;
Involve young people in healthy activities, for example in various forms of volunteer work at home and abroad, where substance abuse is combatted.

Above all, society should stop sending conflicting messages to young people. I call for responsible behaviour on the part of media and the music industry: their role models in relation to drug abuse is crucial.

Conclusions

All countries are part of the drug problem. Commitment by all countries is needed for its solution.

I have invited you to think globally, but let me also ask you to act locally. It is important that the United Nations Conventions and their goals are translated into national policies. Your role in this process is fundamental. Drug abuse by youth cannot be addressed in isolation. Questions of education, employment, social inclusion, sexual health, and others need to be considered.

Hopefully, at the end of this meeting, you will return to your constituencies with renewed energy and engage everybody -- voters and fellow legislators alike -- in our common effort: a healthy future for our children also depends on you.

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New insights into the causes of addiction

What causes addiction, new insights into a common problem, pleasure principle, learning process, development of tolerance, compulsion takes over, understanding addiction: how addiction hijacks the brain.

Addiction can be so difficult to overcome because it changes your brain and your motivation to quit. But understanding the causes of your addiction can help you break it.

Adapted with permission from the Harvard Mental Health Letter and Overcoming Addiction: Find an effective path toward recovery , a special health report published by Harvard Health Publishing.

Addiction involves craving for something intensely, loss of control over its use, and continuing involvement with it despite adverse consequences. Addiction changes the brain, first by subverting the way it registers pleasure and then by corrupting other normal drives such as learning and motivation. Although breaking an addiction is tough, it can be done.

The word “addiction” is derived from a Latin term for “enslaved by” or “bound to.” Anyone who has struggled to overcome an addiction—or has tried to help someone else to do so—understands why.

Addiction exerts a long and powerful influence on the brain that manifests in three distinct ways: craving for the object of addiction, loss of control over its use, and continuing involvement with it despite adverse consequences.

For many years, experts believed that only alcohol and powerful drugs could cause addiction. Neuroimaging technologies and more recent research, however, have shown that certain pleasurable activities, such as gambling, shopping, and sex, can also co-opt the brain.

Although a standard U.S. diagnostic manual (the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition or DSM-IV) describes multiple addictions, each tied to a specific substance or activity, consensus is emerging that these may represent multiple expressions of a common underlying brain process.

Nobody starts out intending to develop an addiction, but many people get caught in its snare. Consider the latest government statistics:

Nearly 23 million Americans—almost one in 10—are addicted to alcohol or other drugs.
More than two-thirds of people with addiction abuse alcohol.
The top three drugs causing addiction are marijuana, opioid (narcotic) pain relievers, and cocaine.

In the 1930s, when researchers first began to investigate what caused addictive behavior, they believed that people who developed addictions were somehow morally flawed or lacking in willpower. Overcoming addiction, they thought, involved punishing miscreants or, alternately, encouraging them to muster the will to break a habit.

The scientific consensus has changed since then. Today we recognize addiction as a chronic disease that changes both brain structure and function. Just as cardiovascular disease damages the heart and diabetes impairs the pancreas, addiction hijacks the brain. This happens as the brain goes through a series of changes, beginning with recognition of pleasure and ending with a drive toward compulsive behavior.

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The brain registers all pleasures in the same way, whether they originate with a psychoactive drug, a monetary reward, a sexual encounter, or a satisfying meal. In the brain, pleasure has a distinct signature: the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the nucleus accumbens, a cluster of nerve cells lying underneath the cerebral cortex (see illustration). Dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens is so consistently tied with pleasure that neuroscientists refer to the region as the brain’s pleasure center.

All drugs of abuse, from nicotine to heroin, cause a particularly powerful surge of dopamine in the nucleus accumbens. The likelihood that the use of a drug or participation in a rewarding activity will lead to addiction is directly linked to the speed with which it promotes dopamine release, the intensity of that release, and the reliability of that release.

Even taking the same drug through different methods of administration can influence how likely it is to lead to addiction. Smoking a drug or injecting it intravenously, as opposed to swallowing it as a pill, for example, generally produces a faster, stronger dopamine signal and is more likely to lead to drug misuse.

Brain’s Reward Center

Addictive drugs provide a shortcut to the brain’s reward system by flooding the nucleus accumbens with dopamine. The hippocampus lays down memories of this rapid sense of satisfaction, and the amygdala creates a conditioned response to certain stimuli.

Scientists once believed that the experience of pleasure alone was enough to prompt people to continue seeking an addictive substance or activity. But more recent research suggests that the situation is more complicated. Dopamine not only contributes to the experience of pleasure, but also plays a role in learning and memory—two key elements in the transition from liking something to becoming addicted to it.

According to the current theory about addiction, dopamine interacts with another neurotransmitter, glutamate, to take over the brain’s system of reward-related learning. This system has an important role in sustaining life because it links activities needed for human survival (such as eating and sex) with pleasure and reward.

The reward circuit in the brain includes areas involved with motivation and memory as well as with pleasure. Addictive substances and behaviors stimulate the same circuit—and then overload it.

Repeated exposure to an addictive substance or behavior causes nerve cells in the nucleus accumbens and the prefrontal cortex (the area of the brain involved in planning and executing tasks) to communicate in a way that couples liking something with wanting it, in turn driving us to go after it. That is, this process motivates us to take action to seek out the source of pleasure.

Do you have addiction?

Determining whether you have addiction isn’t completely straightforward. And admitting it isn’t easy, largely because of the stigma and shame associated with addiction. But acknowledging the problem is the first step toward recovery.

A “yes” answer to any of the following three questions suggests you might have a problem with addiction and should—at the very least—consult a health care provider for further evaluation and guidance.

Do you use more of the substance or engage in the behavior more often than in the past?
Do you have withdrawal symptoms when you don’t have the substance or engage in the behavior?
Have you ever lied to anyone about your use of the substance or extent of your behavior?

Over time, the brain adapts in a way that actually makes the sought-after substance or activity less pleasurable.

In nature, rewards usually come only with time and effort. Addictive drugs and behaviors provide a shortcut, flooding the brain with dopamine and other neurotransmitters. Our brains do not have an easy way to withstand the onslaught.

Addictive drugs, for example, can release two to 10 times the amount of dopamine that natural rewards do, and they do it more quickly and more reliably. In a person who becomes addicted, brain receptors become overwhelmed. The brain responds by producing less dopamine or eliminating dopamine receptors—an adaptation similar to turning the volume down on a loudspeaker when noise becomes too loud.

As a result of these adaptations, dopamine has less impact on the brain’s reward center. People who develop an addiction typically find that, in time, the desired substance no longer gives them as much pleasure. They have to take more of it to obtain the same dopamine “high” because their brains have adapted—an effect known as tolerance.

At this point, compulsion takes over. The pleasure associated with an addictive drug or behavior subsides—and yet the memory of the desired effect and the need to recreate it (the wanting) persists. It’s as though the normal machinery of motivation is no longer functioning.

The learning process mentioned earlier also comes into play. The hippocampus and the amygdala store information about environmental cues associated with the desired substance, so that it can be located again. These memories help create a conditioned response—intense craving—whenever the person encounters those environmental cues.

Cravings contribute not only to addiction but to relapse after a hard-won sobriety. A person addicted to heroin may be in danger of relapse when he sees a hypodermic needle, for example, while another person might start to drink again after seeing a bottle of whiskey. Conditioned learning helps explain why people who develop an addiction risk relapse even after years of abstinence.

Recovery is possible

It is not enough to “just say no”—as the 1980s slogan suggested. Instead, you can protect (and heal) yourself from addiction by saying “yes” to other things. Cultivate diverse interests that provide meaning to your life. Understand that your problems usually are transient, and perhaps most importantly, acknowledge that life is not always supposed to be pleasurable.

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As Joe Biden prepares to speak at the DNC, what has he accomplished as president?

Historians say biden has notched important policy victories. here’s a closer look at what he delivered so far and where he has fallen short..

CHICAGO — Since President Joe Biden decided not to seek a second term, Democratic chatter about the incumbent president turned from despair at his stumbling campaign to praise for his accomplishments.

Biden enters the Democratic National Convention at the United Center, where he will deliver a prime-time address Aug. 19, with a swell of admiration from Kamala Harris, his vice president and successor as the Democratic presidential nominee.

Biden and Harris appeared together Aug. 15 to mark the first 10 prescription drugs the federal government negotiated for lower prices for Medicare recipients starting in 2026 — a signature achievement for Biden. At the announcement, their first joint appearance since Biden exited the race July 21, Harris noted “a lot of love in this room for our president.”

“And I think it’s for many, many reasons,” Harris told the Largo, Maryland, audience , “including few leaders in our nation have done more, on so many issues, including to expand access to affordable health care, than Joe Biden.”

Historians said Biden has notched important policy victories.

PolitiFact has watched the progress of 99 promises Biden made during the 2020 campaign. Our Biden Promise Tracker uses the same system we applied to our promise-tracking of former presidents Donald Trump and Barack Obama .

Our rating system assesses campaign promises based on outcomes, not intentions. Only full enactment of a promise qualifies for a Promise Kept; partial enactment merits a Compromise rating. We’ll continue updating promises until Biden leaves the Oval Office; we typically don’t rate a promise broken until later in the term, when a president has had more time to act on the promise.

So far, Biden earned a Promise Kept rating for about 29 of his promises, and 10 more received a Compromise rating. Three so far have received a Promise Broken , but with five months to go in his presidency, another 32 rated Stalled could move there by the time he leaves office. The remaining 24 are rated In the Works .

Here’s a closer look at what Biden delivered so far and where he has fallen short.

Biden’s successes

As he entered office in January 2021, Biden’s first task was addressing the novel coronavirus pandemic. He signed the American Rescue Plan , a $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief bill that passed with only Democratic support. The virus remains but is no longer an overwhelming threat. We rated his pledge to get COVID-19 under control a Promise Kept.

Also, as we noted, Biden successfully repealed a law barring Medicare from negotiating lower drug prices .

On a key environmental issue, Biden moved the U.S. toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 . (This would mean a balance between greenhouse gas emissions from human activities and removals of these gases.) He also secured bipartisan cooperation on the economy with an infrastructure law that passed with the backing of 13 Republicans in the House and 19 in the Senate, and a separate bipartisan bill to promote semiconductor manufacturing, known as the CHIPS and Science Act.

Arizona State University political scientist Steven Smith said Biden “encouraged compromise, which involved radical reductions in his plans, and patience that most Democrats seemed to lack. The result was major new policy initiatives and significant tax policy changes.”

The Inflation Reduction Act, a wide-ranging package with estimated costs of $800 billion over 10 years, enacted climate change policies but earned no Republican support. It passed only when two centrists in the Democratic caucus, Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema, were satisfied with its scope.

A promise to decriminalize marijuana , launched using executive authority, is moving toward finalization. Biden has so far limited direct tax increases to people earning more than $400,000 .

Biden also nominated the first Black woman to U.S. Supreme Court , Ketanji Brown Jackson. Beyond the Supreme Court, the Senate approved a combined 201 district and circuit court judges nominated by Biden through mid-July, a number higher than the first-four-years total of Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.

Not everything Biden accomplished was high-profile. The spending bills he signed kept a pledge to invest $300 million for the community policing program known as COPS (Community Oriented Policing Services). His administration enacted technical changes that made consumer-friendly changes to Obamacare . And although a pro-labor union bill stalled in the Senate after passing in the House, Biden leveraged appointments to the National Labor Relations Board to make union organizing easier for workers .

Biden the presidential candidate couldn’t have predicted Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, but his administration responded with several rounds of funding to bolster Ukraine’s defenses.

He also couldn’t have predicted the Jan. 6, 2021, storming of the Capitol. But he later signed legislation to clarify the procedures for counting electoral votes, which experts say should prevent the types of legal arguments that fed the Capitol violence.

On a more personal note, Biden cited the death of his veteran son Beau from brain cancer in pushing to pass the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics, or PACT, Act, which expands services for veterans who, during their service, were exposed to burn pits or other dangerous chemicals.

Biden’s compromises

Sometimes Biden settled for half a loaf.

A gun bill he signed included incentives for states to pass “red flag” laws that can remove weapons for people deemed threats to themselves or others. The bill, the first significant new gun law in three decades, also stiffened gun restrictions for certain domestic partners convicted of abuse and expanded background checks for potential purchasers between the ages of 18 and 21.

However, the law does not include other changes anti-gun violence advocates had sought, including requiring background checks for all gun sales and banning the manufacture and sale of assault weapons and high-capacity magazines .

A sweeping Biden plan to forgive student loan debt lost at the Supreme Court, but he has used executive authority to move toward the same goal in a more piecemeal way.

On foreign affairs, Biden extricated the United States from Afghanistan, but chaotically and with American and Afghani bloodshed . His pledge to end U.S. military involvement in the Middle East has not succeeded, however, particularly after Hamas attacked Israel last Oct. 7.

Biden’s failures

On multiple occasions, Biden was stymied — by Republican opposition, by recalcitrant Democrats, or by his own choice.

After the Supreme Court overturned the abortion decision Roe v. Wade, efforts to codify Roe v. Wade have come to naught, failing to secure the 60 votes needed in the Senate. (He did, however, sign legislation to codify same-sex marriage.

A bipartisan immigration bill seemed to gather momentum earlier this year, but then Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, leaned on House Republicans to reject it. So, although Biden reversed family separation policies and rescinded the “Muslim bans” Trump had instituted, more far-reaching policies remained out of reach, including creating a pathway to citizenship for nearly 11 million people .

When Biden tried to increase the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour , seven Senate Democrats stood in the way. And Biden was forced to curb his ambitions on social policies — such as universal preschool to 3- and 4-year-olds and two years of community college tuition-free — when crucial centrists, declined to support them.

Biden reversed himself on a promise to block new hydraulic fracturing on federal lands . And although Biden had pledged in 2020 to put Social Security on a path to long-run solvency , his position was not to cut Social Security benefits or raise the retirement age — which economists said are the two most obvious ways to improve the program’s solvency.

John Pitney, a politics professor at Claremont McKenna College, said political reality has hemmed in every president, including Biden.

“Statesman and philosopher Edmund Burke wrote that ‘those who will lead must also, in a considerable degree, follow,’” Pitney said. “Biden has had to deal with the constraints of public opinion.”

Biden also oversaw some notable failures. In addition to the chaotic troop withdrawal, critics have pointed to high levels of migrant crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border (though they are now dropping ) as well as inflation that peaked at a four-decade high, sapping consumer confidence.

Economists said some inflation would have been inevitable given pandemic-era supply chain problems, but they added that the American Rescue Plan probably exacerbated inflation by putting money in Americans’ hands when their chances to spend it were limited.

Smith said Biden’s low-profile role in legislative negotiations and difficulty in broadcasting his successes “reduced the credit that flowed to him for his efforts.” This, combined with long-lasting consumer frustration with high prices, left Biden with an average approval rating that was almost 18 points underwater when he announced he would give up the nomination.

Opinion | Media reaction to Kamala Harris’ acceptance speech

It was a speech that wowed not only the obviously partisan crowd in Chicago, but many of the media commentators covering it.

Fact check: How accurate was Kamala Harris’ 2024 DNC speech in Chicago?

Harris leaned into several key policy themes: abortion rights, voting rights and support for Ukraine as it fights a continuing Russian invasion

LIVE: Fact-checking Kamala Harris’ 2024 DNC speech in Chicago

PolitiFact is live fact-checking the fourth and final night of the 2024 Democratic National Convention

Opinion | Who has been the DNC’s most surprising speaker so far?

It’s Stephanie Grisham, a former White House press secretary for Donald Trump who now supports Kamala Harris for president

Fact check: What Walz, Buttigieg, Clinton and others got right and wrong at Day 3 of the DNC

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz accepted his party’s vice presidential nomination on the Democratic convention’s third night

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Speech On Drug Abuse
Speech On Drug Abuse
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Speech on Drug Abuse in English in Simple and easy Words
Speech on Drug Abuse - Speech 1. Dear Students - Warm Greetings to all of you! I welcome everyone to the school seminar hall. Today, we are here to discuss about the fatal consumption of drugs and how it is destroying the lives of our youth. But before the discussion begins, I would like to deliver a short speech on drug abuse and would ...
Speech On Drug Abuse
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Short Speech on Drug Addiction in English for Students and Children
Drug sellers target students and make them addicted to drugs. Initially, they give drugs to the students for free and once, they get addicted, they start charging them. They also target poor children and make them sell drugs in order to earn some money. Drug consumption makes students mentally and physically weak.
Long and Short Speech on Drug Abuse in English in Simple and easy Words
Speech on Drug Abuse 1. Dear Students - Warm Greetings to all of you! I welcome everyone to the school seminar hall. Today, we are here to discuss about the fatal consumption of drugs and how it is destroying the lives of our youth. But before the discussion begins, I would like to deliver a short speech on drug abuse and would like to ...
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Humorous and honest. 2. Addiction: A Story of Stigma, A Story of Hope | Scott McFadden (2020) This 18-minute talk delivered by Scott McFadden is one of the best TED Talks for addiction as it addresses stigma and sends a message of hope. Excerpt: Scott McFadden is a Licensed Addictions Counselor, who also identifies as a person in long term ...
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4. "When you get into a tight place and everything goes against you, till it seems you could not hang on a minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn.". — Harriet Beecher Stowe.
1 Minute Speech on Drug Abuse in English
1 Minute Speech on Drug Abuse in English. Respected Principal, teachers and my dear friends, a wonderful morning to all of you. Today on this special occasion, I would like to speak some words on the topic- Drug Abuse. Drug Abuse is a huge problem in the modern world, and it has sadly become very prevalent in India too.
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They are not alone in their battle. Each one of us can be a superhero against the monster of drug abuse and illicit trafficking. In conclusion, let us remember this day as a symbol of our fight. Let us stand together, learn, help, and fight. Because together, we are stronger than any monster. Thank you.
Speech On Drug Abuse
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Essay on Drug Abuse in 250 and 500 Words in English for Students
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5 Minute Speech on Drug Addiction in English for Students
Lots of lives are lost due to this. We should try our best as the people in the society to eradicate this. Drug addiction should be taught to children about it and its consequences. It can break a person's life in a snap. The cases of this are rising and now the concern is on many people. The world has decided to set a day for educating the ...
Speech on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (556 Words)
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Here are ten unmissable TED Talks to help you gain insights into substance abuse recovery and mental health. 1. Johann Hari: Everything You Think You Know About Addiction is Wrong. Johann Hari's TED Talk offers a refreshing and informative take on addiction, forcing viewers to rethink the true meaning of the word.
Long and Short Drug Abuse Speech in English
Speech on Drug Abuse 1. Dear Students - Warm Greetings to all of you! I welcome everyone to the school seminar hall. Today, we are here to discuss about the fatal consumption of drugs and how it is destroying the lives of our youth. But before the discussion begins, I would like to deliver a short speech on drug abuse and would like to ...
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2) Everything You Know About Addiction is Wrong by Johann Hari. With an in-your-face title like that, you know this talk is going to be worth your while. Johann Hari has spent years traveling around the world to find out what causes addiction and what the solution (s) could be. His innovative ideas may just be the cure for the universal crisis ...
Anti-Drug Campaign Speech
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Address to the Nation on the Campaign Against Drug Abuse
Regular drug use is even higher among the age group 18 to 25 -- most likely just entering the workforce. Today there's a new epidemic: smokable cocaine, otherwise known as crack. It is an explosively destructive and often lethal substance which is crushing its users. It is an uncontrolled fire. And drug abuse is not a so-called victimless crime.
Drug addiction (substance use disorder)
Appearing under the influence of drugs, with slurred speech, slow movements and poor coordination; Irregular heartbeats; Tremors; ... Drug use can have significant and damaging short-term and long-term effects. Taking some drugs can be particularly risky, especially if you take high doses or combine them with other drugs or alcohol ...
Speeches
Drug abuse by youth cannot be addressed in isolation. Questions of education, employment, social inclusion, sexual health, and others need to be considered. Hopefully, at the end of this meeting, you will return to your constituencies with renewed energy and engage everybody -- voters and fellow legislators alike -- in our common effort: a ...
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Drug Abuse and Addiction
Short-term medical use of ... As drug abuse takes hold, you may miss or frequently be late for work or school, your job performance may progressively deteriorate, and you may start to neglect social or family responsibilities. Your ability to stop using is eventually compromised. ... Tremors, slurred speech, or impaired coordination. Behavioral ...
Understanding Addiction: How Addiction Hijacks the Brain
All drugs of abuse, from nicotine to heroin, cause a particularly powerful surge of dopamine in the nucleus accumbens. The likelihood that the use of a drug or participation in a rewarding activity will lead to addiction is directly linked to the speed with which it promotes dopamine release, the intensity of that release, and the reliability ...
As Joe Biden prepares to speak at the DNC, what has he ...
Here's a closer look at what Biden delivered so far and where he has fallen short. Biden's successes As he entered office in January 2021, Biden's first task was addressing the novel ...

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5. Addiction Neuroscience 101 (2018)

4. Chris Herren Speaking on His Addiction Recovery Story | PeaceLove (2015)

5. Disconnected Brains: How Isolation Fuels Opioid Addiction | Rachel Wurzman (2018)

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8. Great Leaders Do What Drug Addicts Do | Michael Brody-Waite (2018)

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15. Recover Out Loud | Tara Conner (2017)

16. Revitalize | Living With Addiction | Amber Valletta (2015)

17. Rewriting the Story of My Addiction | Jo Harvey Weatherford (2015)

18. The Stigma of Addiction | Tony Hoffman (2018)

For Families – The Island of Insanity: Navigating Through Loved Ones’ Addictions | Karen Perlmutter (2022)

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